Effects of maternal role support intervention for adolescent mothers: A systematic review on breastfeeding, postpartum depression, and parenting environment

Purpose: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effects of maternal role support interventions on pregnant adolescents, focusing on exclusive breastfeeding, postpartum depression, parenting environment, and child development. The study sought to inform the development of targeted support programs for adolescent mothers. Methods: Using PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials published from January 2014 to July 2024 that were sourced from MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, RISS, and KISS. Twelve studies involving 4,991 adolescent participants were included. They measured outcomes such as exclusive breastfeeding, postpartum depression (EPDS scores), parenting environment quality (HOME-IT scores), and child development (BSID-III scores). The data were extracted independently and analyzed for pooled effects, with evidence certainty assessed via GRADE. Results: The review found that maternal role support interventions improved breastfeeding knowledge in adolescent mothers but did not significantly increase exclusive breastfeeding rates. Interventions involving family support and professional counseling effectively reduced postpartum depression with sustained effects. Positive changes were also observed in parenting environment factors such as home organization and learning materials. Minor improvements in children’s cognitive and language development were noted, though these were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Maternal role support interventions enhance breastfeeding knowledge, reduce postpartum depression, and improve certain aspects of the home environment for adolescent mothers. However, exclusive breastfeeding rates and child developmental gains require additional multifaceted support. Future interventions should incorporate comprehensive tailored approaches involving family and professional support to address the complex needs of adolescent mothers and their children.