Association of Anxiety Levels with the Duration Taken to Initiate Breastfeeding (EIBF) in Primiparous Mothers

This study aimed to examine the relationship between maternal anxiety levels and the timing of Early Initiation of Breastfeeding (EIBF) among primiparous mothers. EIBF, also known as Inisiasi Menyusu Dini (IMD), is a vital procedure that supports the establishment of effective breastfeeding and is recommended globally. Nevertheless, various maternal factors, particularly psychological conditions, may influence the implementation of EIBF. The main objective of this research was to determine whether increased anxiety during the peripartum period is associated with delays in initiating breastfeeding. A correlational analytic design with a cross-sectional approach was utilized in this investigation. The study population consisted of 77 eligible participants, while the final sample included 69 primiparous mothers who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants were chosen through purposive sampling. The independent variable was the maternal anxiety level, and the dependent variable was the timing of EIBF implementation. Data were gathered using a structured self-administered questionnaire designed to measure both variables. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Mann-Whitney U test. The findings demonstrated a p-value of 0.0389, which was below the significance threshold of 0.05 (p < 0.05), indicating the rejection of the null hypothesis. Therefore, the results revealed a significant relationship between anxiety levels and the timing of EIBF among primiparous mothers. Elevated anxiety was identified as a factor contributing to delayed initiation of breastfeeding. These findings highlight the importance of regular psychological screening and effective anxiety management for first-time mothers during childbirth to facilitate optimal postnatal care, particularly the timely initiation of EIBF.