The motivational determinants of breast-feeding: predictors for the continuation of breast-feeding.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to evaluate the motivational determinants of the continuation of breast-feeding until 3 months postpartum.


METHODS
A prospective cohort study using the Integrated Change Model in 341 women in 5 child health care centers.


RESULTS
At birth, 73% of the mothers started with breast-feeding and 39% of them continued at least 3 months postpartum. Mothers who continued for 3 months differed in almost all the motivational determinants from mothers who discontinued. In the multiple logistic regression analysis, social support for formula feeding from significant others and situational self-efficacy for breast-feeding made a significant independent contribution to the continuation of breast-feeding. Among the predisposing determinants, the strongest positive predictor of continuation was the intention to return to work at 1 month postpartum.


CONCLUSIONS
The Integrated Change Model is valid to explain and predict the continuation of breast-feeding. Hence, the results may be used to tailor future interventions aimed at promoting breast-feeding. In the discussion, we use the results to target interventions.
Kools
Els J
EJ
Department of Epidemiology, Care and Public Health Research Institute (Caphri) and Nutrition and Toxicology Research Institute Maastricht (Nutrim), Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands. elsanten@mgzl.nl
Thijs
Carel
C
Kester
Arnold D M
AD
de Vries
Hein
H
D000328:Adult; D001942:Breast Feeding / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D009042:Motivation; D015337:Multicenter Studies as Topic; D009426:Netherlands; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires