Factors Influencing Breastfeeding Motivation in Chinese Postpartum Women Based on Self-Determination Theory: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Authors

Shuliang Zhao, Aihua Wang, Wei Xia

Published in

Journal of human lactation : official journal of International Lactation Consultant Association. Pages 8903344261460262. Jul 12, 2026. Epub Jul 12, 2026.

Abstract

Understanding breastfeeding motivation determinants is essential for woman-centred support. Limited evidence exists on factors influencing breastfeeding motivation among Chinese women, particularly through self-determination theory.
This study investigated breastfeeding motivation levels and associated factors in Chinese postpartum women.
A cross-sectional study recruited 222 postpartum women from a tertiary hospital in Shandong, China. Sociodemographic data were collected, and breastfeeding motivation was assessed at 6 weeks postpartum using the Breastfeeding Motivation Scale. Univariate analysis and multiple linear regression identified factors associated with autonomous and controlled motivation for breastfeeding.
Mean autonomous and controlled motivation scores for breastfeeding were 56.44 ± 8.14 and 25.44 ± 4.42, respectively. Multivariate linear regression revealed that multiparity (β = 2.397, p = 0.011) and higher education (β = 5.554, p = 0.021) were positively associated with autonomous motivation, whereas multiparity (β = -1.446, p = 0.003) and higher education (β = -2.508, p = 0.041) were negatively associated with controlled motivation. Caesarean delivery reduced both autonomous (β = -1.921, p = 0.049) and controlled motivation (β = -2.255, p < 0.001). Conventional antenatal education lowered autonomous motivation (β = -6.777, p < 0.001) but increased controlled motivation (β = 3.506, p < 0.001).
Multiparity and higher education were associated with greater autonomous and lower controlled breastfeeding motivation, whereas conventional antenatal breastfeeding education showed the opposite pattern. Caesarean delivery was associated with lower levels of both motivation types. Autonomy-supportive prenatal programs may help promote sustained breastfeeding motivation.

PMID:
42437482
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 13 Jul 2026.

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