A Qualitative Study on TPB‐Based Factors for Breastfeeding Cessation in Women With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in the Early Postpartum Period

OBJECTIVE: This study is aimed at exploring the core factors contributing to breastfeeding cessation in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) during the early postpartum period, so as to provide evidence-based references for formulating targeted interventions to improve breastfeeding persistence in this population. METHODS: A phenomenological qualitative research design was adopted. Semistructured in-depth interviews were conducted with 15 GDM women who had ceased breastfeeding within 1 week after delivery. The interview data were analyzed using thematic extraction and identity to extract key themes. RESULTS: Five core themes related to breastfeeding cessation in GDM women were identified: (1) negative evaluations shaped by inadequate and biased perceptions; (2) breastfeeding cessation driven by social pressure and conflicting influences; (3) low self-efficacy caused by practical and physical barriers; (4) interactive effects of attitudes, norms, and perceived control; and (5) targeted support to strengthen attitudes, norms, and perceived control. CONCLUSION: The cessation of breastfeeding in GDM women during the early postpartum period is a result of the interaction of knowledge gaps, psychological stress, practical barriers, and inadequate support. Healthcare providers should develop individualized, GDM-focused breastfeeding support strategies, including targeted knowledge education, timely psychological intervention, standardized clinical guidance, and family-involved support models to reduce the rate of early breastfeeding cessation and promote long-term breastfeeding in GDM women.