From connection to confidence: Factors supporting successful online lactation peer support for postpartum mothers
DOI: https://doi.org/10.33024/min.v9i7.4271
Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Lactation Support Midwifery Care Online Peer Support Postpartum Mothers
Abstract
Background: Breastfeeding self-efficacy is an important determinant of mothers’ confidence in initiating and maintaining breastfeeding. Postpartum mothers may experience breastfeeding difficulties and require accessible, responsive, and continuous support. Online lactation peer support provides an opportunity to connect mothers with peers while facilitating access to breastfeeding information and emotional support. However, the factors that support successful online peer support, particularly in relation to maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy, remain insufficiently understood.
Purpose: To examine the improvement in breastfeeding self-efficacy following an online lactation peer support intervention and to identify key factors that may support its successful implementation among postpartum mothers.
Method: A quantitative one-group pretest–posttest design was conducted among 25 postpartum mothers. Participants received an online lactation peer support intervention designed to provide breastfeeding-related information, peer interaction, emotional support, and opportunities to discuss breastfeeding difficulties. Breastfeeding self-efficacy was assessed before and after the intervention using the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale–Short Form (BSES-SF). Pretest and posttest scores were compared using an appropriate paired statistical test.
Results: The mean breastfeeding self-efficacy score increased from 49.3 ± 8.1 before the intervention to 68.7 ± 7.4 after the intervention, representing a mean increase of 19.4 points. The improvement was statistically significant (p < 0.001). The findings indicate that accessible peer interaction, responsive breastfeeding support, emotional reassurance, relevant information, and continuity of support may contribute to the successful implementation of online lactation peer support and strengthening maternal breastfeeding confidence.
Conclusion: Online lactation peer support was associated with a significant improvement in breastfeeding self-efficacy among postpartum mothers. A maternal-centered model integrating accessibility, peer connection, responsive support, relevant information, and professional facilitation may strengthen the potential of online peer support as a component of continuing postpartum breastfeeding care.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Eva Berliana, Yusari Asih, Nurlaila Nurlaila, Marlina Marlina, Indah Trianingsih
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