The Relationship of Previous Breastfeeding Experiences and Factors Affecting Breastfeeding Rates: A Follow-Up Study

Many studies have focused on the effects of previous breastfeeding experience (PBE) on subsequent breastfeeding, but few have explored their specific relationships. To explain the relationship between PBE and subsequent breastfeeding behavior based on a follow-up study. After delivery, 394 participants who had no PBE completed a demographic questionnaire, breastfeeding knowledge questionnaire, the breastfeeding self-efficacy short-form scale (BSES-SF), and the Iowa infant feeding attitudes scale (IIFAS). Multiparas with PBE also completed the maternal breastfeeding evaluation scale (MBFES) in addition to the aforementioned four questionnaires. On the 42nd day after delivery, participants completed the breastfeeding experience scale (BES) through social networking platforms (QQ, WeChat: both are Chinese social medias). At 4 and 6 months postpartum, researchers contacted participants by phone or a social network regarding their exclusive and partial breastfeeding experiences. In this study, exclusive breastfeeding rates were 58.6% and 30.5% at 4 and 6 months. PBE affected breastfeeding attitudes (p < 0.05), self-efficacy (p < 0.01), and difficulties (p < 0.05). Breastfeeding knowledge, attitude, self-efficacy, and difficulties were relevant to exclusive and partial breastfeeding at 4 and 6 months (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that compared with women without PBE, the probability of exclusive breastfeeding of multiparas with PBE at 4 and 6 months increased by 275% and 369%, respectively. The rate of breastfeeding remains low among Chinese women, but PBE is associated with a higher probability of breastfeeding at 4 and 6 months postpartum. Multiparas, especially those having PBE were more likely to breastfeed for an extended period based on their knowledge, attitude, self-efficacy, and ability to manage difficulties.