Factors Influencing Exclusive Breastfeeding Intention Among Antenatal Mothers in Sarikei, Sarawak

Abstract

Introduction: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for six months is strongly recommended due to its health benefits, yet EBF rates remain suboptimal in Malaysia. Maternal intention is a strong predictor of breastfeeding behaviour. This study examines the factors influencing EBF intention among antenatal mothers in Sarikei, Sarawak. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant women attending antenatal care at two systematically selected health clinics. Universal sampling was used. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using validated tools: the Iowa Infant Feeding Attitude Scale (IIFAS), the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form (BSES-SF), and a breastfeeding knowledge questionnaire. Binary logistic regression was used to identify significant predictors of EBF intention. Results: Among 137 participants, 81.0% intended to practise EBF. Binary logistic regression revealed that husband support (AOR = 7.949, 95% CI: 1.147–55.092, p = 0.036) and family support (AOR = 7.646, 95% CI: 1.899–30.785, p = 0.004) were significant predictors of EBF intention. Knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy were not independently associated with EBF intention. Conclusion: Husband and family support play crucial roles in shaping EBF intention. Future interventions should prioritise engaging family members in breastfeeding education and support programmes to improve EBF rates. This study may be subject to a few biases commonly associated with cross-sectional designs, including social desirability bias and recall bias. The use of a single question measure for breastfeeding intention may limit interpretation. Longitudinal studies are recommended to assess how intention translates into actual breastfeeding behaviour.