The Experience of Mothers in the First Six Months of Breastfeeding: A Qualitative Study

International Journal of Nursing and Health Science

© 2022 by SSRG - IJNHS Journal

Volume 8 Issue 3

Year of Publication : 2022

Authors : Jenna Del Sordo, Emma Stanek-Chu, Christopher Sean Stevens, Summer Pillsbury, Carmen V. Harrison

10.14445/24547484/IJNHS-V8I3P101

How to Cite?

Jenna Del Sordo, Emma Stanek-Chu, Christopher Sean Stevens, Summer Pillsbury, Carmen V. Harrison, "The Experience of Mothers in the First Six Months of Breastfeeding: A Qualitative Study," SSRG International Journal of Nursing and Health Science, vol. 8,  no. 3, pp. 1-6, 2022. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/24547484/IJNHS-V8I3P101

Abstract:

Prominent health organizations support exclusive infant breastfeeding during the first six months. Although maternal and infant benefits of breastfeeding are vast, breastfeeding goals are not being met. Understanding the early experiences of breastfeeding women can help identify resources to address subpar breastfeeding rates. This study aims to understand the lived experiences of breastfeeding women in the first six months after giving birth. A qualitative research design was utilized. A convenience sample of women who gave birth to full-term infants within the last six months and exclusively breastfeeding at the time of discharge was included in this study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. After analyzing the interview data, four themes emerged: (1) Peer and family support increased breastfeeding; (2) Partner support increased breastfeeding; (3) Lack of education by health care professionals was a breastfeeding barrier, and (4) Lack of designated breastfeeding locations at work was a breastfeeding barrier. Identifying early factors that facilitate and hinder breastfeeding is crucial to help enhance women's breastfeeding experience. It may assist in increasing breastfeeding rates, thereby improving the lives of women, infants, families, and communities across the globe.

Keywords:

Breastfeeding, Breastfeeding barriers, Breastfeeding resources, Qualitative.

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