Parisa Parsa and Atieh Boojar
Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Iran
Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Neonatal Biol
Background: Breastfeeding is one of the most important factors in ensuring the health of infants. Self-efficacy of mothers is effective on promotion and continuation of breastfeeding . The aim of this study was to determine the effect of lactation counseling on self-efficacy and continuation of breast-feeding in primiparous mothers. Methods: This study was a randomized clinical trial. In this study, 104 qualified primiparous women after vaginal delivery were randomly assigned into two groups (case and control). The data collected through a questionnaire that included demographic characteristics , self-efficacy in breastfeeding, and continuation of Exclusive Breast Feeding (EBF). Before the consultation questionnaire was completed by both groups. The four weekly sessions during a month and three monthly telephone followups were conducted in intervention group. While the control group received only routine care. After fourth moth of delivery, the two groups were re-examined. Data analyzed using the independent t-test, paired t test. Results: Two groups had no significant differences in demographic variables. Before consultation, there was not any significant difference on self-efficacy and breastfeeding between intervention and control group. After consultation, there was a significant difference on self-efficacy and breastfeeding between intervention and control group. The mean score of selfefficacy and EBF have increased significantly in intervention group (P<0.01). However, a significant decrease was observed in the control group (P<0.01). Conclusions: With regard to the role of consulting on self-efficacy and breastfeeding continuation, it suggests that this consultation is scheduled to take place in hospitals.