Midwifery factors in successful breastfeeding: First 6 months postpartum

Abstract

Aim: This study was conducted to investigate the effect of midwifery factors on successful breastfeeding in the first 6 months postpartum. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted on 506 mothers in their sixth month of postpartum period using a web-based questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the predictors of midwifery factors in achieving and maintaining successful breastfeeding. Results: Infant Feeding Attitude Scale mean total score was 46.47±5.09. In the regression model, the status of encountering a midwife in the early period of 12 weeks and before pregnancy (OR: 1.088), participating in a pregnant education class during pregnancy (OR: 0.362), having received breastfeeding education by a midwife during pregnancy (OR: 1.510) and receiving midwife support after delivery (OR: 1.039) were determined as predictors of increased breastfeeding positive attitude and continuity. In addition, mothers who have a high school or below education level, are not working, have a planned pregnancy, have a preterm birth, have a baby boy, have a vaginal delivery and breastfeed their baby within the first hour after delivery continue until the sixth month after delivery. It was determined that they had statistically significant breastfeeding scores (p<0.005). Conclusions: This study provides a foresight about the importance of midwives regarding the breastfeeding attitude and continuity of mothers in the postpartum six-month period. The results can provide information about the predictors of midwives working in the 1st and 2nd level health services in achieving the health goals of the World Health Organization in order to ensure the continuity of breastfeeding.