Factors Associated with the Need for Breastfeeding Information Among Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

PurposeAnalyzing information based on individual needs can maximize the effectiveness of education, leading to changes in personal health behaviors. This cross-sectional descriptive survey study aimed to identify the characteristics of mothers who experienced gestational diabetes mellitus and correlate the factors associated with their information needs. MethodsThe participants were 298 women between the ages of 20 and 49 years who were pregnant and diagnosed with gestational diabetes at the time of the study, or who were diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus within five years after delivery. The average age of the participants was 34.28 years. After comparing participants’ demographics, diabetes, and breastfeeding-related characteristics according to their need for information on breastfeeding, a multiple logistic regression analysis was performed. ResultsFactors associated with participants’ need for information on breastfeeding were economic conditions, usual body mass index, current pregnancy, and experience of breastfeeding. ConclusionThe findings can be used to implement programs that meet the needs of these women and help improve maternal and pediatric health and quality of life.