Investigating the Relationship Between Spiritual Intelligence and Spiritual Health With Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy in Lactating Women in Gorgan

Background & Aim: Promoting breastfeeding is a global priority for the health of infants and children.Spiritual intelligence and spiritual health are two hypothetical components associated with breastfeeding self-efficacy, potentially enhancing exclusive breastfeeding practices.Given the significance of this topic, the present study aims to determine the relationship between spiritual intelligence, spiritual health, and breastfeeding self-efficacy among breastfeeding women in the city of Gorgan. Materials & Methods:A descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 269 primiparous women who were at most two months after delivery.Participants were selected through convenience sampling from the list of visitors at comprehensive health centers in Gorgan and completed demographic information forms, spiritual intelligence questionnaires, spiritual health questionnaires, and breastfeeding selfefficacy questionnaires through self-reporting.Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods and regression models with SPSS software version 16. Results:The average scores for spiritual intelligence, spiritual health, and breastfeeding self-efficacy were 53.66 15.09, 99.6 12.77, and 56.44 5.56, respectively.The results revealed a significant correlation between spiritual intelligence and spiritual health (r = 0.23; p < 0.001) and additionally, between spiritual health and breastfeeding self-efficacy (r = 0.121; p = 0.048).However, a nonsignificant correlation was observed between spiritual intelligence and breastfeeding self-efficacy (r = 0.011; p = 0.863). Conclusion:Considering the impact of spiritual health on breastfeeding self-efficacy, it is essential to leverage this component to enhance breastfeeding self-efficacy.Emphasizing spiritual health in breastfeeding education and counseling can play a significant role in promoting effective breastfeeding practices.