MINDFULNESS-BASED BREASTFEEDING EDUCATION PROGRAM

EFFECT OF MINDFULNESS-BASED BREASTFEEDING EDUCATION PROGRAM ON BREASTFEEDING OUTCOMES IN MOTHERS NOT EXCLUSIVELY BREASTFEEDING: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effect of a mindfulness-based breastfeeding education program on breastfeeding outcomes among mothers who are not exclusively breastfeeding. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. The intervention group will receive a mindfulness-based breastfeeding education program in addition to routine care. Breastfeeding outcomes, maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy, and related variables will be assessed following the intervention.

Breastfeeding is one of the most important practices for improving maternal and infant health. However, many mothers experience difficulties maintaining exclusive breastfeeding during the postpartum period. Psychological stress, anxiety, low breastfeeding confidence, and difficulties adapting to motherhood may negatively affect breastfeeding behaviors and contribute to early supplementation with formula or other foods.

Mindfulness-based approaches have been increasingly used to support maternal psychological well-being and health-related behaviors. These approaches aim to increase awareness of present-moment experiences in a non-judgmental manner and may help mothers engage more consciously in the breastfeeding process. Previous studies suggest that mindfulness-based interventions may improve maternal coping, emotional regulation, and breastfeeding experiences. However, evidence regarding their effectiveness among mothers who are not exclusively breastfeeding remains limited.

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effect of a mindfulness-based breastfeeding education program on breastfeeding awareness, breastfeeding self-efficacy, and exclusive breastfeeding rates among postpartum mothers who are not exclusively breastfeeding. Participants are randomly assigned to either a mindfulness-based breastfeeding education group or a control group receiving routine postpartum care. The intervention includes structured breastfeeding education combined with mindfulness-based practices conducted over four weeks. Outcomes are assessed at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and during follow-up assessments postpartum.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being 18 years of age or older, being in the first month postpartum, having a full-term, singleton, and healthy infant, and not exclusively breastfeeding the infant (i.e., using formula or other foods in addition to breast milk)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having previously received mindfulness or similar training, having a diagnosed psychiatric disorder, and having any condition that impairs communication.