ArticleEuropean journal of midwifery2026
Birth experience and early postpartum outcomes: A cross-sectional study of mother-infant bonding, breastfeeding self-efficacy, and depressive symptoms.
Article in European journal of midwifery, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
introductionChildbirth is a transformative experience with lasting psychological and emotional effects. Evidence shows that birth experience influences maternal outcomes such as breastfeeding self-efficacy, mother-infant bonding, and postpartum depression, yet these associations in low-risk births remain insufficiently explored. This study examined how birth satisfaction relates to early postpartum maternal well-being.
methodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in Lithuania among 218 women who experienced low-risk deliveries. Data collection occurred between September 2022 and July 2024. The present analysis is based on data collected at 6-8 weeks postpartum. Standardized instruments were used to assess birth satisfaction (BSS-R), breastfeeding self-efficacy (BSES-SF), mother-infant bonding (MIBS), and postpartum depressive symptoms (EPDS). Mann-Whitney U tests and linear regression models were applied, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant.
resultsA positive birth experience was associated with stronger mother-infant bonding (less resentment, disappointment, and aggression; all p≤0.003) and higher protective emotions (p=0.025). These women also reported higher breastfeeding self-efficacy, including confidence in milk intake, latch, and managing difficulties (all p≤0.012). Negative experiences were linked to higher postpartum depressive symptoms (EPDS p=0.014), particularly anxiety and reduced enjoyment (both p≤0.008). Birth satisfaction predicted breastfeeding self-efficacy (R
conclusionsA positive birth experience is associated with stronger mother-infant bonding and higher breastfeeding self-efficacy. Although linked to fewer depressive symptoms, its predictive value for postpartum depression was limited, indicating the importance of additional psychosocial determinants. ABBREVIATIONS: BSS-R: Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised, BSES-SF: Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form, MIBS: Mother-Infant Bonding Scale, EPDS: Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale.
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