A Qualitative Study on TPB-Based Factors for Breastfeeding Cessation in Women With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in the Early Postpartum Period.

OBJECTIVE

This study is aimed at exploring the core factors contributing to breastfeeding cessation in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) during the early postpartum period, so as to provide evidence-based references for formulating targeted interventions to improve breastfeeding persistence in this population.

METHODS

A phenomenological qualitative research design was adopted. Semistructured in-depth interviews were conducted with 15 GDM women who had ceased breastfeeding within 1 week after delivery. The interview data were analyzed using thematic extraction and identity to extract key themes.

RESULTS

Five core themes related to breastfeeding cessation in GDM women were identified: (1) negative evaluations shaped by inadequate and biased perceptions; (2) breastfeeding cessation driven by social pressure and conflicting influences; (3) low self-efficacy caused by practical and physical barriers; (4) interactive effects of attitudes, norms, and perceived control; and (5) targeted support to strengthen attitudes, norms, and perceived control.

CONCLUSION

The cessation of breastfeeding in GDM women during the early postpartum period is a result of the interaction of knowledge gaps, psychological stress, practical barriers, and inadequate support. Healthcare providers should develop individualized, GDM-focused breastfeeding support strategies, including targeted knowledge education, timely psychological intervention, standardized clinical guidance, and family-involved support models to reduce the rate of early breastfeeding cessation and promote long-term breastfeeding in GDM women.