Investigating the Relationship between Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy and Stress in Lactating Women

Mahsa Salimi Kivi; Mehri  Fathali-Loy-Dizaji; Masoumeh  Sohrabi; Maryam  Armand

doi:10.18502/jimc.v9i2.21172

Mahsa Salimi Kivi Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Khalkhal Branch, Islamic of Azad University, Khalkhal, Iran
Mehri Fathali-Loy-Dizaji Fayyaz Bakhsh Hospital, Social Security Organization, Tehran, Iran
Masoumeh Sohrabi Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Khalkhal Branch, Islamic of Azad University, Khalkhal, Iran
Maryam Armand Avicenna Fertility Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jimc.v9i2.21172

Keywords: Breastfeeding, Stress, Self-efficacy

Abstract

Background: Breastfeeding, as a healthy and effective method of infant feeding, contributes to enhanced short- and long-term health outcomes for both women and infants. However, there is growing concern about the decline in breastfeeding rates, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In Iran, despite some progress, the incidence of early breastfeeding cessation has increased. Many factors affect the quality of breastfeeding, including breastfeeding self-efficacy and stress, which have been identified as two critical factors influencing this issue.

Methods: This analytical-descriptive study was conducted in 2023 on 147 lactating women who attended comprehensive health centers in Khalkhal city. Data were collected using standardized questionnaires, including the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), along with a demographic questionnaire.

Results: The results indicated a statistically significant negative correlation between breastfeeding self-efficacy and stress (r=-0.206, p=0.012). Additionally, breastfeeding self-efficacy was significantly associated with several demographic variables, including education (r=0.168, p=0.041), duration of marriage (r=0.255, p=0.002), infant gender (r=0.246, p=0.003), and birth interval (r=0.264, p=0.001).

Conclusion: The findings highlight the critical role of self-efficacy and stress in breastfeeding outcomes. Enhancing breastfeeding self-efficacy among lactating women may contribute to higher rates of exclusive breastfeeding. Educational and supportive interventions targeting these factors can play a pivotal role in improving breastfeeding practices.