einstein (São Paulo). 03/Jul/2013;11(2):180-5.

Correlation between breastfeeding and maternal health status

DOI: 10.1590/S1679-45082013000200008

OBJECTIVE: To examine the relation between breastfeeding efficacy and health status in a sample of 88 mothers from Southern Brazil. METHODS: Research participants completed the Portuguese version of the General Health Questionnaire and the Personal Health Scale. Breastfeeding efficacy was evaluated using the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale. Correlations between breastfeeding and health status scores were examined using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. RESULTS: The results of this study revealed significant correlations between the scores of the two general health and well-being questionnaires and the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale. Bivariate regression analyses revealed that both health status instruments significantly predicted Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale scores. CONCLUSION: Breastfeeding efficacy is significantly related to maternal health status in Southern Brazil.