Investigating the influence of family-oriented counselling on breastfeeding continuity in mothers experiencing distractions: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

The prevalence of distraction among breastfeeding mothers is on the rise, primarily attributed to the escalating use of media technologies. This study aimed to assess the influence of family-oriented counselling on the continuity of breastfeeding in mothers experiencing distractions. This randomized controlled trial included 120 eligible lactating mothers who accessed postpartum services at comprehensive health centers in Zanjan, a city in northwest Iran from August 21, 2022 to May 10, 2023. Participants were assigned to two groups through block randomization with a block size of four. The intervention group received Family-Oriented Counselling in three sessions at weekly intervals, and the control group received standard postpartum care. The study measured outcomes using the Maternal Distraction Questionnaire and breastfeeding patterns before, monthly, and up to 4 months after counselling. Data analysis employed statistical methods, including the Chi-square test, independent t-test, repeated measures ANOVA, and the Kaplan-Meier method, with a significance level set at P < 0.05. The results showed that the continuation of exclusive breastfeeding was 33 (55 %) in the intervention group and 21 (35 %) in the control group. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.001). The reduction in distraction scores over time was more pronounced in the intervention group compared to the control group. The between-group effect was found to be statistically significant with an eta effect size of 0.73 (p = 0.001). In conclusion, the study suggests that the implementation of a family-centered intervention was effective in promoting the continuation of breastfeeding and reducing maternal distractions both during breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding activities. This approach proves to be a valuable step in enhancing the health of both mother and child. The findings underscore the importance of considering such interventions in health policymaking.