Masters Theses
Relationships between Postpartum Anxiety, Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy, and Breastfeeding Exclusivity
Date of Award
5-2021
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Major
Nutrition
Major Professor
Katie Kavanagh
Committee Members
Sarah Colby, Marsha Spence
Abstract
Background
Though several important barriers to exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) have been identified, the relationship between postpartum anxiety and EBF remains inadequately explored.
Objective
The objective of this study was to determine if there was a significant relationship between postpartum anxiety and EBF and, if so, determine if breastfeeding self-efficacy moderated this relationship.
Methods
This was a cross-sectional, online survey. Eligibility criteria: mothers (at least 18 years of age), with an infant (aged 4-24 weeks), and who had provided breastmilk at least once in the previous two weeks. The survey instrument included demographic questions and three scales: the EPDS (Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale; score range: 0-30), the STAI (State Trait Anxiety Inventory; score range: 0-60), and the BSES-SF (Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale, short form; score range: 14-70).
Results
The final sample size was 123. The majority reported being white (91.0%; n=112), non-Hispanic (91.0%; n=112), married (75.6%; n=93) and EBF at survey completion (61%; n=75). Mean scale scores: STAI, 26.1 (+/-13.10), EPDS, 10.3 (+/-4.30), and BSES-SF, 56.4 (+/-11.25). Anxiety (STAI) was significantly negatively related to breastfeeding self-efficacy (p=0.047) but not EBF (p=0.357). Path analysis showed an indirect effect of anxiety on EBF via direct impact on breastfeeding self-efficacy (p=0.025; model: p
Conclusion
In this largely homogeneous sample, results indicated the relationship between postpartum anxiety and breastfeeding self-efficacy may have been affecting EBF. Strengthening breastfeeding self-efficacy among women experiencing postpartum anxiety may be a potential strategy to support EBF. Future research should explore these concepts in a more heterogeneous sample.
Recommended Citation
Eichholtz, Rachel, "Relationships between Postpartum Anxiety, Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy, and Breastfeeding Exclusivity. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 2021.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/6231