The Role of Exclusive Breastfeeding in Postpartum Depression

Background Aims of the Study: Exclusive breastfeeding is related to multiple factors, understanding of each of these related factors can be helpful in taking strategies to prevent its early discontinuation. of exclusive breastfeeding. The purpose of this study was to determine the exclusive breastfeeding role in postpartum depression. Materials Methods: This The study was done in the spring and summer of 2012 in Qom, Iran. Through a case-control study mothers were divided into three groups, each consisting of 100 subjects. For adjusting the involved variables affecting depression, we used limiting and matching methods. To collect data, we used demographic information questionnaire and Beck standard questionnaire. The data were analyzed, , through SPSS -18, ANOVA, exact Fisher test, Pearson correlation coefficient on a statically significant level (P 0.05). Results: significant difference was observed among the exploratory groups as the average score of depression in the exclusive breastfeeding group was 12.81, 13.59 in the group fed supplementary food and 15.06 in the group who stopped breastfeeding. Mild depression in the exclusive breastfeeding subjects was 5%, in mothers feeding their children supplementary food was 8%, and in the group of mothers who stopped breastfeeding was 10%. Severe depression was only seen among mothers who stopped breastfeeding and it was 5%. Also there was a significant inverse correlation between depression, sufficient milk supply, and the husbands support. Conclusions: Although the depression frequency was lower in the exclusive breastfeeding group, yet ANOVA analysis didn t show any significant difference. It is worth noting that the mothers belief in their breastfeeding self-efficiency and also their husbands support alleviated the depression occurrence rate.