Modifiable factors predicting breastfeeding intentions in early pregnancy: A multi-country study of women at risk of gestational diabetes.

BACKGROUND

Breastfeeding outcomes are suboptimal in women with gestational diabetes. Early pregnancy represents a critical but often overlooked window for intervention. Understanding early prenatal predictors of breastfeeding intention in women at risk of gestational diabetes would support timely, targeted interventions.

OBJECTIVE

To identify factors associated with breastfeeding intention in early pregnancy among women at risk of gestational diabetes, focusing on modifiable factors for early intervention.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study is a secondary analysis of baseline data from the Bump2Baby and Me trial. Women (n = 804) were recruited before 24 weeks' gestation from Ireland, UK, Spain and Australia. Participants completed questionnaires measuring infant feeding attitude, health literacy, willpower and breastfeeding history. Logistic regression examined factors associated with breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding intention.

RESULTS

Most participants (89%, n = 631) intended to breastfeed, with 69% (n = 494) planning exclusive breastfeeding. Infant feeding attitude was the strongest predictor of exclusive breastfeeding intention (AOR 11.10, 95% CI 6.73-18.31), followed by proxy breastfeeding self-efficacy (AOR 5.44, 95% CI 3.11-9.53). Being breastfed themselves (AOR 2.02, 95% CI 1.26-3.26), and normal body mass index were also significant predictors. Women with overweight showed lower odds of exclusive breastfeeding intention compared to normal weight participants (AOR 0.52, 95% CI 0.31-0.86).

CONCLUSION

Infant feeding attitude and proxy breastfeeding self-efficacy were strongly associated with any breastfeeding intention and the strongest predictors of exclusive breastfeeding intention in early pregnancy for women at risk of gestational diabetes. These modifiable factors could be targeted in early pregnancy interventions when women are highly motivated to make positive health changes, to improve breastfeeding outcomes in this population.