Enhancing breastfeeding self-efficacy in the postpartum period through emotional release with self-talk method

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the impact of utilizing the "Happy Maternal Card," a self-talk intervention, on breastfeeding self-efficacy during the postpartum period. The research involved 28 mothers three days postpartum in Health Canter Care in Purwodadi regency, Indonesia, from February to March 2020, using a quasi-experimental pre-post design with a control group. The intervention group received self-talk sessions twice daily for a month, while the control group received information through a maternal book twice a week. Breastfeeding ability and independent infant care were measured using the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale. Results indicated a significant decrease in anxiety (p-value=0.000) and a positive impact on breastfeeding self-efficacy in the intervention group (p-value=0.001). The positive suggestions of self-talk empowered mothers cognitively, enabling them to handle stress and believe in positive suggestions, ultimately influencing behavior. This self-talk method has the potential for postpartum care to enhance maternal efficacy in managing psychological aspects, contributing to the success of exclusive breastfeeding.