Family-Centered Breastfeeding Education to Promote Primiparas' Exclusive Breastfeeding in China

Background: Few breastfeeding education programs focus on primiparas and the importance of family members on exclusive breastfeeding in China. Research aim: This study aimed to explore the influence of a family-centered breastfeeding education program in promoting exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months postpartum and to improve women's attitude and knowledge, family members' knowledge, and family support. Methods: This was a two-group quasi-experimental design with multiple comparisons. Participants (N = 59) were randomized to either the intervention (n = 29) or the control (n = 30) group. The intervention group received two prenatal breastfeeding education lectures that included important family members, three home visits, eight telephone calls, text or video/audio support, and quality online resources during lactation. The control group received in-hospital care and follow-up by community nurses after discharge. Results: Compared with the control group, the intervention group was more likely to exclusively breastfeed in the first 6 months, odds ratio = 0.44, 95% confidence interval [0.20, 0.98]. The mean knowledge level of the intervention group improved more across time (p < .05) and was higher than the control group (p < .05). Perceived family support within the intervention group was significantly higher than the control group from 1 to 6 months (p < .05). Conclusion: The breastfeeding education program is an effective strategy to promote exclusive breastfeeding in China.