The Relationship Between Depression and Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy of Breastfeeding Women: The Case of Türkiye

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between depression and breastfeeding self-efficacy
in women with infants aged 0-12 months living in Türkiye.

Methods: This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted between April 24 and May 10, 2022. The study sample consisted of 410 women with infants aged 0-12 months living in Türkiye. The data were collected using descriptive
information forms, such as the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale (BSES).

Results: The mean age of the participants was 30.24 ± 5.89 years, with 46% of them having completed primary school
or below. The mean BDI score of the female participants was low (13.14 ± 10.44), while the mean BSES total score was
high (52.31 ± 11.20). A significant negative correlation was identified between the mean BDI and BSES total scores of the
participants (r=−0.228, P < .001). The BDI and BSES scores of women were found to differ statistically according to their
age, educational status, employment status, breastfeeding experience, and number of births (P < .05). A weak positive
correlation was identified between the number of births and both the BDI (r=0.24) and the BSES (r=0.13) (P < .01).

Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that the difficulties and depression experienced by mothers during the
breastfeeding process can have a negative impact on their desire to breastfeed and the success of this endeavor. The
findings of this study offer insights into the intricate relationship between breastfeeding and depression, as well as
recommendations for supporting mothers.

Cite this article as: Yakıt Ak E, Şen MA, Tandoğan Ö. The relationship between depression and breastfeeding self-efficacy of breastfeeding women: The case of
Türkiye. Arch Health Sci Res. 2025;12, 0009, doi: 10.5152/ArcHealthSciRes.2025.25009.