Introduction: Breastfeeding is one of the most important factors in ensuring the health of infants. Self-efficacy of mothers is effective on promotion and continuation of breastfeeding. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of lactation counseling on self-efficacy and continuation of breast-feeding in primiparous mothers.

Methods: This study was a randomized clinical trial. In this study, 104 qualified primiparous women, after vaginal delivery, were randomly assigned to two intervention and control groups. Before the consultation, a questionnaire including demographic characteristics, self-efficacy in breastfeeding, and continuation of Exclusive Breast Feeding (EBF), was completed by both groups. Four weekly sessions per month and three monthly telephone follow-ups were conducted for the intervention group. While the control group received only routine care. After the fourth month of delivery, the two groups were re-examined. Data was analyzed using the independent t-test, paired t test and Chi-square test.

Results: The two groups had no significant differences in demographic variables. Before the intervention, there was no significant difference in self-efficacy of breastfeeding between intervention 38.139 ± 41.11 and control 90.137 ± 10.11 groups. While after the intervention, there was a significant difference in self-efficacy of breastfeeding between the intervention 13.156 ± 92.6 and control 15.101 ± 11.18 groups (P < 0.001). Also EBF at four months showed statistically significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.03).

Conclusions: With regards to the role of consulting on self-efficacy and breastfeeding continuation, it is suggested for this consultation to take place in hospitals.