The effect of yoga-breathing exercise on breastfeeding success, self efficiency and attachment in mothers with breastfeading problems

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of yoga and breathing exercises on breastfeeding success, self-efficacy and attachment in mothers with breastfeeding problems. Instruments and Method: his study, conducted in a randomized controlled experimental design, was carried out from March 2023 to June 2024 at the Buca Seyfi Demirsoy Education and Research Hospital, affiliated with İzmir Democracy University, specifically in the Buca Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Pediatrics Breastfeeding Counseling Clinic. The mothers were divided into two groups—study and control groups—using a simple randomization method. The sample consisted of 98 mothers who applied to the breastfeeding counseling clinic and met the inclusion criteria, with 48 mothers in the study group and 50 mothers in the control group. The study group received yoga and breathing exercises in addition to the clinic's routine breastfeeding education program, while the control group received only the routine breastfeeding education provided by the clinic. Data collection involved the use of the Introductory Information Form, the LATCH Breastfeeding Assessment Tool, the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale (BSES), and the Maternal Attachment Scale (MAS). The data were analyzed using Chi-square analysis, independent samples t-test, and paired samples t-test. Results: The LATCH scores of mothers in the study group (9.35±1.42) were higher than those of the control group (7.74±2.10) (p < 0.001). The Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale (BSES) scores of mothers in the study group (67.41±5.10) were higher than those of the control group (60.00±7.20) (p < 0.001). The Maternal Attachment Scale (MAS) scores of mothers in the study group (103.56±1.00) were higher than those of the control group (94.14±5.92), (p < 0.001). Conclusion: This study found that yoga and breathing exercises improved breastfeeding success, self-efficacy, and maternal attachment in mothers experiencing breastfeeding difficulties. It is suggested that yoga, as an alternative method, could be a beneficial addition to postpartum care, and that nurses may offer guidance and counseling to mothers regarding the practice of yoga. Keywords: Mothers, Attachment, Breast Feeding, Self Efficacy, Yoga