Knowledge, attitudes, and use of galactagogues among breastfeeding mothers in San Mateo, Rizal

BACKGROUND: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months and continued breastfeeding up to 2 years. However, many mothers face challenges, including perceived insufficient milk, which limits their ability to continue breastfeeding. OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and consumption patterns of breastfeeding mothers in San Mateo, Rizal, regarding galactagogues, focusing on natural and pharmacological options to enhance milk supply. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 113 breastfeeding mothers recruited through convenience sampling via online platforms. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS: Findings showed that 65.0% of mothers had moderate knowledge of galactagogues. Nearly all participants (99.1%) consumed natural options such as malunggay, whereas 20.3% reported pharmacological use. Social media was the primary source of information (50.4%). More than half (56.6%) of mothers spent Php 200 or less on galactagogues. Positive attitudes were evident, with 93.8% recognizing breastfeeding as highly beneficial and 83.2% perceiving galactagogues as effective for improving milk supply. CONCLUSION: Galactagogues are widely used despite limited evidence and modest knowledge. Programs should strengthen lactation counseling and EINC, integrate accurate nutrition education, and emphasize galactagogues as not first-line responses to PIM.