Analysis of Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy and Infant Age on Exclusive Breastfeeding Success

This study analyzed the influence of Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy (BSE) and infant age on Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF) and examined the moderating role of infant age. This quantitative study employed a cross-sectional design and was conducted in October 2022 at Buhit Public Health Center, Pangururan City in North Sumatra, Indonesia, involving 64 mothers with infants aged 1-5. The study utilized BSE Scale and a structured questionnaire. Analyzed using Spearman’s correlation and binary logistic regression, including an interaction analysis to test moderation effects. Results showed that 53% of mothers practiced EBF. There was a significant positive correlation between BSE and exclusive breastfeeding (r = 0.573; p < 0.01), while infant age was not directly associated with breastfeeding status (p = 0.242). Logistic regression showed that BSE significantly predicted EBF (OR = 1.089; p < 0.001). The interaction analysis revealed that BSE moderated the relationship between infant age and EBF (p = 0.030), suggesting that BSE has a stronger influence at certain infant ages. BSE plays a moderating role in the relationship between infant age and breastfeeding outcomes.