Hypno-Breastfeeding Education and Postpartum Outcomes

Overview

This randomized controlled trial aims to examine the effects of hypno-breastfeeding-based education on postpartum anxiety, self-compassion, breastfeeding motivation, and breastfeeding self-efficacy among mothers in the early postpartum period. The postpartum period is a critical phase characterized by significant physical and psychological changes. Primiparous mothers, in particular, may experience anxiety, lack of confidence, and reduced motivation for breastfeeding, which may negatively affect breastfeeding success and mother-infant bonding. The study will be conducted with 102 primiparous mothers aged 18-40 years within the first 72 hours postpartum. Participants will be randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. The intervention group will receive hypno-breastfeeding-based education, while the control group will receive routine care. The educational program includes principles of hypnosis, breastfeeding knowledge, anxiety management, self-efficacy enhancement, and self-awareness techniques, supported by guided relaxation, breathing exercises, and positive suggestion methods. Data will be collected using validated scales, including the Postpartum-Specific Anxiety Scale, Self-Compassion Scale, Breastfeeding Motivation Scale, and Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale. Appropriate statistical analyses will be performed. The findings are expected to contribute to the development of psychoeducational nursing interventions, reduce postpartum anxiety, improve breastfeeding outcomes, and strengthen maternal adaptation.

This randomized controlled trial is designed to evaluate the effects of hypno-breastfeeding-based education on postpartum anxiety, self-compassion, breastfeeding motivation, and breastfeeding self-efficacy in the early postpartum period. The postpartum period is a critical phase in which women undergo significant physiological recovery as well as psychological and social adaptation to motherhood. Primiparous mothers, in particular, frequently experience anxiety, perceived inadequacy, stress, and concerns related to breastfeeding, which may negatively affect breastfeeding practices and mother-infant bonding. Postpartum anxiety is a significant psychological factor influencing maternal confidence, caregiving ability, and adaptation to breastfeeding. Breastfeeding motivation and self-efficacy are key determinants of successful initiation and continuation of breastfeeding. Mothers with higher self-efficacy tend to demonstrate greater persistence, lower anxiety levels, and more successful breastfeeding outcomes. In addition, self-compassion is considered a protective psychological construct that enhances emotional regulation and resilience by promoting self-kindness and reducing self-criticism. Hypnosis-based approaches focus on accessing subconscious processes to promote relaxation, mental awareness, and positive cognitive restructuring. Previous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of hypnosis in reducing anxiety, managing stress, and improving psychological well-being. However, there is limited evidence regarding the integration of hypnosis into breastfeeding-focused nursing interventions. Therefore, hypno-breastfeeding represents an innovative and holistic approach that may influence both psychological and behavioral outcomes in the postpartum period. The study will be conducted at Zeynep Kamil Women's and Children's Training and Research Hospital in Istanbul. The sample will consist of 102 primiparous mothers aged 18-40 years within the first 72 hours postpartum. Participants will be randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. The intervention group will receive hypno-breastfeeding education, while the control group will receive routine care only. The intervention consists of three sessions, each lasting approximately 60 minutes. The first session focuses on the fundamentals of hypnosis, the importance of breastfeeding, and correct breastfeeding techniques. The second session addresses postpartum anxiety, anxiety management, and hypnosis-based techniques to enhance self-efficacy. The third session emphasizes self-awareness, positive suggestion, and coping strategies for breastfeeding-related challenges. Guided relaxation, breathing exercises, and suggestion techniques are integrated throughout all sessions. Data will be collected at baseline and post-intervention using validated instruments, including the Postpartum-Specific Anxiety Scale, Self-Compassion Scale, Breastfeeding Motivation Scale, and Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale. Statistical analyses will be conducted using SPSS software, including descriptive statistics and appropriate comparative tests to evaluate within-group and between-group differences. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the development of psychoeducational nursing interventions, support maternal psychological well-being, improve breastfeeding outcomes, and strengthen mother-infant bonding. Furthermore, the study provides a novel interdisciplinary model integrating women's health and psychiatric nursing perspectives.