Impact of Maternal Anxiety on Breastfeeding Practices

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between maternal anxiety and breastfeeding practices among mothers in the Greater Accra Metropolis, Ghana, addressing a research gap in low- and middle-income countries. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used to recruit 161 breastfeeding mothers aged 18–45 years with babies aged 1–24 months from postnatal welfare clinics through convenience sampling. Data collection involved face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire that assessed sociodemographic information, maternal anxiety, and breastfeeding practices. Maternal anxiety was evaluated with the modified 12-item Postpartum-Specific Anxiety Scale (PSAS), covering four domains: maternal competence and attachment, infant safety and welfare, practical infant care, and psychosocial adjustment to motherhood. Breastfeeding practices were assessed according to World Health Organization guidelines. The study found a high prevalence of maternal anxiety, with 88.8% of mothers experiencing mild to moderate anxiety and 11.2% reporting severe anxiety, particularly in domains related to infant safety and psychosocial adjustments. Breastfeeding practices varied with 81% of infants still being breastfed at the time of the interview, 76% of mothers initiating breastfeeding within the first hour postpartum, and 73% practicing exclusive breastfeeding. Statistical analyses, including Wilcoxon tests, revealed significant associations between elevated anxiety related to maternal competencies and delayed breastfeeding initiation (p = 0.04). Maternal anxiety related to infant safety and care was significantly correlated with exclusive breastfeeding practices (p = 0.013 and p = 0.030). These findings highlight the need for tailored interventions to address maternal anxiety during the perinatal period to promote optimal breastfeeding practices and improve maternal-infant health outcomes. Routine screening for anxiety and comprehensive support from healthcare providers are crucial, especially in resource-constrained settings. Future research should explore the long-term impacts of maternal anxiety on breastfeeding and child development across diverse socio-cultural contexts.