Factors associated with breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes among non-pregnant, nulliparous women of reproductive age: A scoping review
Authors: Malekian, M., Irving, M. and Hundley, V.
Journal: Midwifery
Volume: 148
ISSN: 0266-6138
DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2025.104511
Abstract:Problem and background: Although breastfeeding has well-established benefits for both mothers and infants, global rates remain suboptimal. Knowledge and attitudes are key factors associated with breastfeeding outcomes and identifying the factors that shape these before pregnancy can guide initiatives to improve breastfeeding rates. Aim: This scoping review aimed to map factors associated with breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes in non-pregnant, nulliparous women of reproductive age. Method: In line with PRISMA-ScR and the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, the Population, Concept, and Context framework was applied to identify factors affecting breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes. A comprehensive search across SCOPUS, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Embase was conducted. Data were extracted using a standardised form, and methodological quality was assessed. A narrative synthesis was performed to summarise the findings. Findings: The review included 37 studies from 22 countries, primarily focusing on university students. Breastfeeding knowledge varied, with some studies reporting moderate to high levels, while others reported lower levels. Most participants had positive attitudes, though a few were neutral or negative. Key associated factors included education, exposure to breastfeeding, age, cultural norms, and socioeconomic status. Higher education and exposure to breastfeeding information were associated with better knowledge and attitudes, while the relationship with socioeconomic status showed mixed results. Conclusion: This review highlights the multifactorial nature of breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes. Interventions before pregnancy are crucial to improving breastfeeding outcomes. Further research is needed, particularly in regions with low breastfeeding rates.
Source: Scopus
Factors associated with breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes among non-pregnant, nulliparous women of reproductive age: A scoping review.
Authors: Malekian, M., Irving, M. and Hundley, V.
Journal: Midwifery
Volume: 148
Pages: 104511
eISSN: 1532-3099
DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2025.104511
Abstract:PROBLEM AND BACKGROUND: Although breastfeeding has well-established benefits for both mothers and infants, global rates remain suboptimal. Knowledge and attitudes are key factors associated with breastfeeding outcomes and identifying the factors that shape these before pregnancy can guide initiatives to improve breastfeeding rates. AIM: This scoping review aimed to map factors associated with breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes in non-pregnant, nulliparous women of reproductive age. METHOD: In line with PRISMA-ScR and the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, the Population, Concept, and Context framework was applied to identify factors affecting breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes. A comprehensive search across SCOPUS, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Embase was conducted. Data were extracted using a standardised form, and methodological quality was assessed. A narrative synthesis was performed to summarise the findings. FINDINGS: The review included 37 studies from 22 countries, primarily focusing on university students. Breastfeeding knowledge varied, with some studies reporting moderate to high levels, while others reported lower levels. Most participants had positive attitudes, though a few were neutral or negative. Key associated factors included education, exposure to breastfeeding, age, cultural norms, and socioeconomic status. Higher education and exposure to breastfeeding information were associated with better knowledge and attitudes, while the relationship with socioeconomic status showed mixed results. CONCLUSION: This review highlights the multifactorial nature of breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes. Interventions before pregnancy are crucial to improving breastfeeding outcomes. Further research is needed, particularly in regions with low breastfeeding rates.
Source: PubMed
Factors associated with breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes among non-pregnant, nulliparous women of reproductive age: A scoping review
Authors: Malekian, M., Irving, M. and Hundley, V.
Journal: MIDWIFERY
Volume: 148
eISSN: 1532-3099
ISSN: 0266-6138
DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2025.104511
Source: Web of Science (Lite)
Factors associated with breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes among non-pregnant, nulliparous women of reproductive age: A scoping review
Authors: Malekian, M., Irving, M. and Hundley, V.
Journal: Midwifery
Volume: 148
Issue: September
Publisher: Elsevier
eISSN: 1532-3099
ISSN: 0266-6138
DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2025.104511
Source: Manual
Factors associated with breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes among non-pregnant, nulliparous women of reproductive age: A scoping review.
Authors: Malekian, M., Irving, M. and Hundley, V.
Journal: Midwifery
Volume: 148
Pages: 104511
eISSN: 1532-3099
ISSN: 0266-6138
DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2025.104511
Abstract:Problem and background
Although breastfeeding has well-established benefits for both mothers and infants, global rates remain suboptimal. Knowledge and attitudes are key factors associated with breastfeeding outcomes and identifying the factors that shape these before pregnancy can guide initiatives to improve breastfeeding rates.Aim
This scoping review aimed to map factors associated with breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes in non-pregnant, nulliparous women of reproductive age.Method
In line with PRISMA-ScR and the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, the Population, Concept, and Context framework was applied to identify factors affecting breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes. A comprehensive search across SCOPUS, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Embase was conducted. Data were extracted using a standardised form, and methodological quality was assessed. A narrative synthesis was performed to summarise the findings.Findings
The review included 37 studies from 22 countries, primarily focusing on university students. Breastfeeding knowledge varied, with some studies reporting moderate to high levels, while others reported lower levels. Most participants had positive attitudes, though a few were neutral or negative. Key associated factors included education, exposure to breastfeeding, age, cultural norms, and socioeconomic status. Higher education and exposure to breastfeeding information were associated with better knowledge and attitudes, while the relationship with socioeconomic status showed mixed results.Conclusion
This review highlights the multifactorial nature of breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes. Interventions before pregnancy are crucial to improving breastfeeding outcomes. Further research is needed, particularly in regions with low breastfeeding rates.Source: Europe PubMed Central