Breastfeeding self-efficacy among new mothers: Associations with childbirth experience, family intimacy, and postpartum lactation yield

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between breastfeeding self-efficacy, childbirth experience, family intimacy, and postpartum lactation yield in 168 mothers who gave birth at Hefei Maternal and Child Health Hospital. Participants were divided into high and low self-efficacy groups based on their scores on the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form (BSES-SF). Data on childbirth experience, family intimacy, and lactation yield were collected. Correlation and logistic regression analyses revealed that breastfeeding self-efficacy positively correlated with childbirth experience, family intimacy, and lactation yield. The high self-efficacy group showed significantly better childbirth experiences, stronger family intimacy, and higher lactation yield compared with the low self-efficacy group. Primiparity, childbirth experience, family intimacy, and postpartum lactation yield were identified as independent factors influencing breastfeeding self-efficacy. These findings highlight the importance of improving childbirth experiences, enhancing family intimacy, and supporting lactation yield to boost maternal self-efficacy in breastfeeding, ultimately contributing to higher breastfeeding success rates.