Toward Authentic Resources Among Mothers: Impact of Cyberchondria on Maternal Self‐Efficacy and Breastfeeding Competency

Abstract

The postpartum period is a critical stage where maternal confidence and self-efficacy significantly influence breastfeeding success and overall adjustment. Cyberchondria refers to the repetitive searching for health-related information online, which can lead mothers to doubt their caregiving abilities, lower their confidence, and negatively impact their perceived competence in breastfeeding and infant care. This study explored the relationship between cyberchondria, maternal self-efficacy, and breastfeeding perceived competency among postpartum mothers. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 300 mothers within 2 months of childbirth, recruited through a two-stage random sampling method from primary health care facilities in Zagazig district, Egypt. Participants completed validated Arabic versions of the Cyberchondria Scale (CS), the Perceived Maternal Parenting Self-Efficacy Scale, and the breastfeeding competency scale (BCS). Findings revealed that higher cyberchondria levels were linked with lower maternal self-efficacy and diminished breastfeeding competency. Maternal self-efficacy demonstrated a significant positive association with breastfeeding perceived competency and partially mediated the relationship between cyberchondria and breastfeeding competency. These results suggest that online health-seeking behaviors may undermine maternal confidence and skills, highlighting the importance of incorporating digital health literacy interventions into postpartum care. Supporting mothers in navigating online health information effectively may enhance self-efficacy and improve breastfeeding outcomes.