Comparison of Intentions and Related Factor in Exclusive Breastfeeding During the First Six Months Among Thai and Foreign Postpartum Mothers at Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital

Abstract

This descriptive comparative study aimed to compare the intention and factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months among Thai and foreign postpartum mothers at Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital. The sample included 220 Thai and 150 foreign postpartum mothers admitted between March and June 2023. Participants were selected based on inclusion criteria: postpartum mothers with normal labor or cesarean deliveries, admitted to the postpartum ward, could communicate effectively in Thai, and consented to participate. The instruments included questionnaires on demographic characteristics, perceived benefits, barriers, self-efficacy, social support, and breastfeeding intentions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square, and Mann-Whitney U-test. The study found that 100% of foreign postpartum mothers and 95.91% of Thai postpartum mothers intended to exclusively breastfeed for the first six months. Foreign mothers showed significantly higher intentions to breastfeed exclusively compared to Thai mothers (χ² 6.089, p .012), while Thai mothers reported significantly greater perceived benefits and social support for exclusive breastfeeding compared to foreign postpartum mothers (Z  -4.293, p  .000 and Z  -6.705, p .000, respectively). No significant differences were observed between the groups regarding perceived barriers and self-efficacy for exclusive breastfeeding.

The findings provide healthcare professionals valuable insights into differences in breastfeeding benefits and social support perceptions between Thai and foreign postpartum mothers, which be useful for planning and developing tailored care models for each group to promote exclusive breastfeeding intentions.