THE CORRELATION BETWEEN EARLY BREASTFEEDING INITIATION (IMD) AND BREASTFEEDING SELF EFFICACY (BSE) IN POSTPARTUM MOTHERS

Abstract

Introduction: Breastfeeding self-efficacy (BSE) is a key predictor of exclusive breastfeeding. Various factors, such as maternal age, occupation, delivery type, breastfeeding experience, postpartum depression, and social support, can influence BSE. This study aims to analyze the relationship between early breastfeeding initiation (IMD) and BSE in postpartum mothers.  Method: A correlational, cross-sectional research design was used. The study involved 104 postpartum mothers aged 0-6 weeks from the Kasreman Ngawi Health Center, selected through purposive sampling. The variables studied were Early Initiation of Breastfeeding (IMD) and Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy (BSE). Data were collected using an IMD implementation checklist and the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form (BSES-SF). Spearman's Rho test was used for statistical analysis, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: The study found a significant relationship between IMD and BSE (p = 0.000), with a strong positive correlation (r = 0.650).   Discussion:  The results suggest that Early Breastfeeding Initiation (IMD) is positively associated with higher Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy (BSE). A higher IMD was linked to a stronger sense of self-efficacy in breastfeeding among mothers. Future studies should explore additional variables to further understand these relationships.