Factors Predicting Exclusive Breastfeeding among The First Time Chinese Mothers

Abstract

                   This study examined the factors that predict exclusive breastfeeding at 4 months and 6 months among the first-time Chinese mothers. Based on the theory of planned behavior, a descriptive and correlational research design was utilized. A systematic random sampling method was applied and a total of 272 first-time Chinese mothers who gave birth at a hospital in Shanghai were recruited. Three instruments, the Breastfeeding Attrition Prediction Tool, the Breastfeeding Knowledge Scale, and a Demographic Questionnaire were used to measure breastfeeding knowledge, attitude, subjective norm, perceived control, and breastfeeding practice. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Point-biserial, Pearson’s product moment correlation, and Logistic regression analysis.
                  Results revealed that the breastfeeding initiation rate was 93.75%, but exclusive breastfeeding rates at 4 months and 6 months had reduced to 34.19% and 3.31%, respectively.There were significant positive relationships between exclusive breastfeeding at 4 months and breastfeeding knowledge, attitude, subjective norm, and perceived breastfeeding control.A negative relationship was found between exclusive breastfeeding at 4 months and working status. A logistic regression analysis indicated that all of five breastfeeding factors could significantly predict exclusive breastfeeding at 4 months. The implication of this study to nursing practice lies in that nurses should provide enough breastfeeding knowledge,encourage new mothers’ positive breastfeeding attitude, change their significant others,and strengthen their breastfeeding control.