The effect of web-based mindful breastfeeding program during pregnancy on postpartum breastfeeding

Objective: This study aimed to develop the web-based Mindful Breastfeeding Program (Mind-BP) and evaluate the effects of its implementation during pregnancy on postpartum breastfeeding awareness, adaptation, and self-efficacy. Method: This single-blind, randomized controlled experimental study was conducted between July 2024 and February 2025. A total of 65 pregnant women who met the inclusion criteria and accessed the study announcements via Instagram were enrolled. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention (n=33) and control (n=32) groups. The intervention group received Mind-BP, which included two online sessions per week for four weeks, as well as access to educational videos and meditation recordings via a dedicated website. Motivational messages were sent through Mind-BP WhatsApp© groups from the beginning of the training until one month postpartum. The control group received a single-session standard breastfeeding education online. Breastfeeding practices were assessed via phone interviews between postpartum days 3–5. Data were collected using the Demographic Information Form, Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21), Mindful Breastfeeding Scale (MINDF-BFS), Breastfeeding Adaptation Scale (BAS), Antenatal and Postnatal Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scales (ABS-PBS), System Usability Scale (SUS), and Mind-BP Evaluation Form. Post-tests were administered to both groups at one month postpartum. Results: The intervention and control groups showed similar baseline characteristics and pre-test scores for MAAS, DASS-21, and ABS (p>0.05). After the intervention, the intervention group had significantly higher MAAS, MINDF-BFS, BAS, and PBS scores and lower DASS-21 scores compared to the control group (p<0.05). Effect size analysis revealed a moderate effect for BAS and high effect sizes for all other scales. The mean SUS score (88.56±8.63) indicated good usability of the developed website. The Mind-BP Evaluation Form, along with participation rates, completion of assigned tasks, and mindful breastfeeding behaviors, demonstrated that Mind-BP was an acceptable and feasible program. Conclusion: Mind-BP was found to be an effective, acceptable, and feasible program that enhances postpartum mindfulness, breastfeeding awareness, adaptation, and self-efficacy while reducing stress, anxiety, and depression levels in mothers. Keywords: Mindfulness, Breastfeeding, Mindful Breastfeeding, Breastfeeding Adaptation, Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy