Improving breastfeeding self-efficacy in mothers; A policy brief

Salarvand, Shahin; Khodayarimotlagh, Zeinab; Behzadifar, Masoud

Volume 27, Issue 3 (11-2025) yafte 2025, 27(3): 38-50 | Back to browse issues page

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Salarvand S, Khodayarimotlagh Z, Behzadifar M. Improving breastfeeding self-efficacy in mothers; A policy brief. yafte 2025; 27 (3) :38-50
URL: http://yafte.lums.ac.ir/article-1-3858-en.html

Improving breastfeeding self-efficacy in mothers; A policy brief

Shahin Salarvand

, Zeinab Khodayarimotlagh ^*

, Masoud Behzadifar

Lorestan University of Medical Sciences

Abstract: (168 Views)

Background: Early reduction or cessation of breastfeeding has detrimental effects on the health of mothers, infants, and society, while imposing substantial costs on the healthcare system. Maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy is a key factor influencing breastfeeding continuation, and numerous studies have sought strategies to enhance it. This study aimed to develop a policy brief to promote breastfeeding self-efficacy among mothers. The research was conducted as a review study to identify essential policies for enhancing maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy within the community health context. Evidence from research articles, systematic reviews, and validated clinical guidelines was utilized to formulate relevant policy recommendations. Findings were categorized into five main areas: challenges and barriers to enhancing breastfeeding self-efficacy, benefits of increased self-efficacy, factors influencing self-efficacy, existing and proposed policies and interventions, and consequences of policy non-implementation. The results indicated that improving breastfeeding self-efficacy requires multi-level interventions and coordination across different sectors of the health system. The discussion emphasized that managing and promoting maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy necessitates a multidisciplinary approach. Health planners and policymakers should consider cross-sectoral collaboration, targeted education, social support, and maternal empowerment when designing interventions. Implementing such strategies can lead to improved maternal and child health outcomes and reduce the financial burden on the healthcare system.

Keywords: Self-efficacy, Breastfeeding, Policy brief

Full-Text [PDF 256 kb] (138 Downloads)

Subject: زنان
Received: 2025/09/30 | Accepted: 2025/11/2 | Published: 2025/11/1