Comparing the Effect of Talks and Motivational Interviews on Self-efficacy of Exclusive Maternal Breastfeeding in Primiparous Women

Background and purpose: Breastfeeding self-efficacy is the feeling of confidence of the mother to experience exclusive breastfeeding. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of talks and motivational interviews on breastfeeding self-efficacy in primiparous women. Materials and methods: This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted in 210 primeval pregnant women attending Torbat Heydarieh health centers, Iran 2017-2018. Random block method was used and the subjects were assigned into three groups (n=70 per group), including those participating in motivational interviews, attending the talk session, and controls. Motivational interview was carried out in five sessions (two hr) and three telephone follow ups were made. The talk group were given a two- hour talk about breastfeeding and received relevant trainings, while the control group only received routine care. The groups were evaluated for breastfeeding self-efficacy at two, four, and six months after childbirth. Data were analyzed applying Chi-square and ANOVA. Results: Demographic variables were not significantly different between the groups (p>0.05). Six months after childbirth, the mean scores for breastfeeding self-efficacy were 63.97±0.89, 50.02±0.91, and 41.77±0.95 in the group participating in motivational interviews, the talk group, and controls, respectively. The score revealed significant differences between the three groups in breastfeeding self-efficacy (p<0.001). Conclusion: Motivational interview was found to be more effective in enhancing breastfeeding self-efficacy, therefore, it is suggested as an effective and inexpensive method, especially in primiparus women.   (Clinical Trials Registry Number: IRCT IRCT2014122220394N1)