Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the associations between health-promotion behaviors, maternal–fetal attachment, spousal support, and breastfeeding intention, and to determine the factors influencing breastfeeding intentions among pregnant Korean women.Methods: This descriptive correlational study involved 184 pregnant Korean women at 20 weeks or more of gestation. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using t-tests, analysis of variance, Pearson correlation analysis, and hierarchical multiple regression.Results: All variables were positively correlated. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that perceived current health status and taegyo practices were significant factors. After adjustment for variables, maternal-fetal attachment showed a tendency to influence breastfeeding intentions (β=0.15, p=0.051). However, health-promotion behaviors and spousal support did not have significant effects.Conclusion: Maternal-fetal attachment is a key factor in determining breastfeeding intentions. To increase breastfeeding rates, prenatal interventions and educational programs should focus on strengthening the emotional bond between the mother and her fetus.
Choi et al. (Thu,) studied this question.