Date of Graduation

5-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Public Health

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Health, Human Performance and Recreation

Advisor/Mentor

Scott, Allison

Committee Member

Hammig, Bart

Abstract

Background: The postpartum period, especially during the first year, presents a heightened risk for maternal anxiety. Research suggests a potential negative relationship between maternal anxiety and breastfeeding duration, though there is currently a gap in the existing literature regarding how maternal mental health impacts breastfeeding outcomes.

Purpose: This study seeks to investigate the influence of postpartum anxiety on both the duration and exclusivity of breastfeeding, crucial knowledge required to support and implement targeted interventions. We expected that maternal anxiety would predict shorter exclusive and total breastfeeding durations.

Methodology: To explore the relationship between postpartum anxiety and breastfeeding behaviors, we distributed a self-reported survey via Qualtrics to women in Northwest Arkansas who had breastfed in the past 12 months (n=213). The survey was promoted in collaboration with Tiny Tusks and Infant Support, an organization offering breastfeeding resources at University of Arkansas sporting events and through social media. Maternal anxiety was measured using the Postpartum Specific Anxiety Scale (PSAS). The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for data analysis, and separate regression models were run to assess both breastfeeding duration and exclusivity. The confounding variables included in the model were child age, maternal education, and infant birth order.

Results: The regression models were significant, but maternal anxiety did not significantly contribute to exclusivity and duration outcomes. Child age and infant birth order were significant predictors in the exclusivity model, while child age was the only significant predictor in the breastfeeding duration model.

Conclusion: Our study did not find statistically significant evidence to support the hypothesis that postpartum anxiety influences breastfeeding behaviors. The lack of significant findings may be partially explained by the limited variability found in survey responses, i.e., high rates of exclusivity and duration.

Keywords

breastfeeding duration; exclusive breastfeeding; anxiety; postpartum

Download

Share

COinS