Abstract: Introduction: Breastfeeding remains the simplest, healthiest and cost effective feeding method that fulfils infants nutritional needs. With a view on promoting initiation and continuation of breastfeeding, breastfeeding assessment tools are implemented for assessing the breastfeeding dyad - infant and mother. On the Ayurvedic perspective, stanya pariksha (~breastmilk examination) has been mentioned additional to assessment of the dyad. Aim: Limitations existing assessment tools have imposed need for improvised protocols. The present article therefore proposes a breastfeeding assessment protocol designed with an integrated approach of methodologies from Ayurveda and Cosmopolitan medicine. Periodic implementation of such tools until the period of exclusive breastfeeding is also emphasized. Materials and Methods: The content of the present article is a part of an unpublished dissertation undertaken to study the galactogogue property of drug kokilaksha (Asteracantha longifolia). This paper however reviews the protocol design for breastfeeding assessment framed using both conventional and archaic assessments. Results: Assessment Of elements are easily adoptable and requires little skill in execution, nonetheless, the protocol is a preliminary model requiring validity and reliability. Conclusion: Simplified yet comprehensive design, user adaptability and non-sophisticated methodology constitute pros of the protocol which thereby intends to favour better in the field of community screening.
Key words: Assessment of breastfeeding infant; Assessment of breastfeeding mother;Breastfeeding; Breastfeeding assessment tool; Breast milk; Stanya pariksha.
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