The Prenatal Rating of Efficacy in Preparation to Breastfeed Scale: A New Measurement Instrument for Prenatal Breastfeeding Self-efficacy

Background: Breastfeeding self-efficacy and breastfeeding intention are two modifiable factors that influence rates of breastfeeding initiation. Research Aims: (1) To develop a scale to measure prenatal breastfeeding self-efficacy, and (2) test its psychometric properties by determining the internal consistency and reliability, and (3) assess the relationships between prenatal breastfeeding self-efficacy and breastfeeding intention. Methods: Cross-sectional prospective one-group survey design was used. A convenience sample of pregnant patients attending an obstetrics and gynecology clinic (N=124) completed a survey at the recruitment site that assessed demographics, breastfeeding intention, and breastfeeding self-efficacy theory constructs. Retest surveys (n=14) were taken home and returned to the researcher by mail after completion. Results: Cronbach's alpha for the 39-item scale was .98 (test) and .97 (retest) with an item-to-total correlation range of .54 to .78. A four-factor solution for the scale was retained. Test-retest indicated each factor was significant and highly correlated: Individual Processes (.88, p < .001), Interpersonal Processes (.893, p < .001), Professional Advice (.919, p < .001), and Social Support (.880, p < .001). Overall prenatal breastfeeding self-efficacy score was highly correlated (.610,p <.001) with breastfeeding intention scores. Conclusions: The Prenatal Rating of Efficacy in Preparation to Breastfeed Scale is a valid and reliable measure of a prenatal women's self-efficacy in preparation to breastfeed. Measuring the level of self-efficacy could alert prenatal women and health professionals to individual skill sets.