Table 3 Themes and selected supporting quotes about factors associated with women’s intention to exclusive breastfeeding (extracted from in-depth interviews with pregnant women)

1. Majority of the women were aware of the benefits of breastmilk and duration to practice EBF, and physical health was mentioned as a main benefit.

“I will give breastmilk for my child’s sake. I heard it prevents diarrhea and illness. Child could be strong, healthy and intelligent if I give breastmilk. It will increase bonding between mother and baby.” (A pregnant woman, had previous breastfeeding history, unemployed).

2. Women reported higher awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding.

“I heard that breastmilk should be given exclusively for six months. I will not add water or formula milk till my child is six months old as suggested. I think breastmilk alone has sufficient nutrients for my baby. I can also save money as I don’t need to spend on formula milk.” (A pregnant woman, had no previous breastfeeding history, unemployed).

3. Work as the main perceived barrier to practice EBF.

“Work is the main barrier. I sell fried rice and could take time off only 4–6 weeks after delivery. How could I breastfeed if there are a lot of customers.” (A pregnant woman, had previous breastfeeding history, street food seller).

“I work in a private company and get 2 months’ maternity leave. It’s impossible for me to give breastmilk exclusively for six months.” (A pregnant woman, had previous breastfeeding history, employed).

4. Previous breastfeeding experience and concern for breastmilk supply play as influencing factors.

“I had difficulties in breastfeeding last time due to mastitis and very painful. If I suffer mastitis this time, I might add formula milk.” (A pregnant woman, had previous birth history employed).

“Not sure whether I will have enough breastmilk because my breasts are small. This is my first pregnancy and hard for me to decide now. If I don’t have enough milk flow, formula milk will be an option.” (A pregnant woman, had no previous breastfeeding history, unemployed).

5. Health staff, family members and printed media were identified as the main sources of breastfeeding information.

“I receive breastfeeding information mostly from health staff, billboard, pamphlet and magazines. I love reading billboard especially if my favorite actress posts in it. My main information source is my sister who has experience in breastfeeding.” (A pregnant woman, had no previous birth history, employed).

6. Feedback on health staff as a source of information.

“I was always told to give breastmilk as it is good for baby by the doctors or the nurses when visiting antenatal clinic. I want to know more. I want to know… why we shouldn’t add water and what should I do, if baby cries or has hiccough or say, I don’t have enough milk. I saw others gave formula milk and seems their children are okay. Hospital staff are very busy and have limited time, I could not ask them (for more information).” (A pregnant woman, had previous breastfeeding history, unemployed).

7. Perceived self-efficacy to EBF.

“I think I could manage to breastfeed easily as I am not working and my husband supports me. My mother breastfed me when I was young and I am ready to feed breastmilk to my baby. I am confident.” (A pregnant woman, had no previous breastfeeding history, unemployed).