THE IMPACT OF BREASTFEEDING EDUCATION DURING PREGNANCY ON MOTHERS' BREASTFEEDING ATTITUDES AND BEHAVIORS

Abstract

Breastfeeding is universally recognized as the optimal feeding method for infants, providing essential nutrients and fostering development. Despite its benefits, many mothers face challenges in initiating and sustaining breastfeeding. Prenatal education has been identified as a potential strategy to improve breastfeeding initiation and duration by addressing maternal attitudes and knowledge, This study aims to investigate the impact of prenatal breastfeeding education on mothers' attitudes toward breastfeeding and their likelihood of exclusive breastfeeding postpartum. Specifically, it assesses whether participation in prenatal breastfeeding education leads to improved breastfeeding attitudes and behaviors compared to standard prenatal care, A quasi-experimental design
was used, involving 100 pregnant women divided into an experimental group (n=50) receiving prenatal breastfeeding education and a control group (n=50) receiving standard prenatal care. The Iowa Infant Feeding Attitude Scale (IIFAS) measured attitudes pre- and
post-intervention, while breastfeeding practices were assessed through a survey six weeks postpartum. Data analysis included paired and independent t-tests, chi-square tests, and multiple regression to examine differences and predictors of breastfeeding attitudes and practices, Mothers in the experimental group showed a significant improvement in breastfeeding attitudes post-intervention (t = 12.36, p < 0.001), whereas the control group exhibited no significant change (t = -0.48, p = 0.63). Postpartum, the experimental group
demonstrated higher rates of exclusive breastfeeding compared to the control group. Multiple regression analysis revealed that age, education level, employment status, and prior breastfeeding experience were significant predictors of positive breastfeeding
attitudes, Prenatal breastfeeding education positively influences maternal attitudes and increases the likelihood of exclusive breastfeeding postpartum. These findings suggest that structured prenatal education interventions can effectively improve breastfeeding attitudes and practices. The study highlights the importance of incorporating breastfeeding education into prenatal care programs to support mothers in initiating and sustaining breastfeeding.