Linking Social Support to Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy In Southeast Asian Postpartum Women: A Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Breastfeeding is vital for infant health and development, but many postpartum women struggle to maintain exclusive breastfeeding. Social support is critical in improving breastfeeding self-efficacy, giving new mothers the confidence and resources they need to overcome obstacles. Understanding how social support influences breastfeeding self-efficacy is crucial in Southeast Asian cultures, where breastfeeding is deeply ingrained.

Method: This paper employed literature review method. Several key words utilized in this study is such as: breastfeeding, self-efficacy, social support, South Asia. Search in English, but there is no limit to the year of publication.

Results: Research has shown that social support plays an important role in boosting breastfeeding self-efficacy among postpartum women, particularly in Southeast Asia. The efficacy of a BabyFriendly Community Initiative (BFCI) model in improving breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes among frontline staff highlights the importance of tailored community-based interventions in creating a supportive breastfeeding environment. Healthcare professionals can empower postpartum women in Southeast Asia to face breastfeeding challenges with confidence and resilience by incorporating tailored social support mechanisms into communitybased initiatives. When comparing social support and breastfeeding self-efficacy in Southeast Asian and Western contexts, it is critical to take cultural differences into account.

Conclusion: Family and community support are important in promoting breastfeeding practices in Southeast Asian cultures, and personal beliefs, experiences, and access to resources all have an impact on breastfeeding self-efficacy. Interventions aimed at improving social support networks may boost these women's confidence and ability to successfully breastfeed.

Keywords: Breastfeeding; Infant health; Postpartum women; Self-efficacy; Social support