Determinants of High Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy among Nursing Mothers in Najran, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Many factors have been found to correlate with satisfactory Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF) practices. The relationships between EBF practices and associated factors are complex and multidimensional; Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy (BSE) is the most important psychological factor that may help the mother to overcome any expected barriers. This study investigates the determinants of high breastfeeding self-efficacy among Saudi nursing mothers. Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study investigating the determinant of BSE among 1577 nursing mothers in primary health centers in Najran City, Saudi Arabia. The study uses a cluster random sampling technique. Data collection was performed from June 2022 to January 2023 using a self-reported questionnaire that encompasses the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale—Short Form (BSES-SF), Gender Friendly Breastfeeding Knowledge Scale (GFBKS), Iowa Infant Feeding Attitude Scale (IIFAS), and a basic data questionnaire to assess women’s demographic factors and obstetric history. Results: The mean score for all BSES-SF items was between 3.23–3.41, the highest mean score was in mothers who felt comfortable breastfeeding with family members present (3.41 ± 1.06), and the lowest mean was in mothers who could breastfeed their baby without using formula as a supplement (3.23 ± 0.94). The overall BSE score was high among 67% of the study participants. Binary logistic regression showed that being a housewife, being highly educated, having breastfeeding experience, and being multiparous are positive predictors for high BSE (p ≤ 0.001). In addition, having adequate breastfeeding knowledge and positive breastfeeding attitudes were positively associated with higher BSE (p = 0.000). Conclusion: BSE can be predicted by modifiable predictors such as mothers’ education, working status, parity, breastfeeding experience, adequate breastfeeding knowledge, and positive attitudes toward breastfeeding. If such predictors are considered during breastfeeding-related educational interventions, it could lead to more effective and sustainable effects in community awareness regarding breastfeeding.

Factors Associated with Exclusive Breastfeeding during Admission to a Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study in Spain

“…Another strength of this study is that it allows us to identify areas for improvement or gaps to target and focus interventions on, both for mothers and healthcare professionals, as well as the healthcare system. This is consistent with similar studies [ 45 ].…”

Associated Factors of Exclusive Breastfeeding Intention among Pregnant Women in Najran, Saudi Arabia

“…Furthermore, Hegazi et al reported that most of their study participants had good knowledge regarding BF except for colostrum and continuation [29]. Other Saudi studies also reported good BF knowledge [16,30]. Although the BF knowledge in the current study was to some extent lower than in the previously mentioned Saudi studies, it was still much higher than in some international studies [31,32].…”

Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy, Personal Well-Being and Related Factors in Pregnant Women Living in a District of Istanbul

“…In addition, positive thoughts and attitudes about breastfeeding during pregnancy contribute to the development of confidence in breastfeeding and make it easier to overcome difficulties [40]. Similarly, in a different study, possessing sufficient knowledge about breastfeeding and having positive attitudes toward breastfeeding were positively correlated with increased levels of breastfeeding self-efficacy [41]. In our study, approximately 30.0% of the mothers had insufficient knowledge about breastfeeding, indicating the need for informative sessions about breastfeeding as part of prenatal care programs.…”