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The private journey : An interpretative phenomenological analysis of exclusive breastfeeding
Charlick, Samantha J. McKellar, Lois Gordon, Andrea L. Pincombe, Jan
Charlick, Samantha J.
McKellar, Lois
Gordon, Andrea L.
Pincombe, Jan
Abstract
Background
Exclusive breast milk provides complete nutrition for a baby’s first six months of life. In Australia, breastfeeding initiation rates are high, however duration rates are low. Although numerous studies have explored the reasons behind low levels of breastfeeding, few have examined the experiences of women who maintain exclusive breastfeeding for the recommended six-month duration.
Aim
This paper will present an in-depth, idiographic interpretation of first-time mothers’ experience of exclusive breastfeeding for six months in Australia.
Method
Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to explore how five new mothers understood their six-month exclusive breastfeeding journey. Face-to-face, semi-structured interviews were conducted retrospectively, transcribed in full, and analysed using the flexible seven-step approach of interpretative phenomenological analysis.
Findings
Three higher-order themes were identified: (1) exclusive breastfeeding is a personal choice, (2) exclusive breastfeeding is harder than expected, and (3) everyone has something to say about breastfeeding.
Conclusion
The mothers were not prepared for public debates around infant feeding methods, where mothers judge each other and give advice that supports their own goals, both of which create an unnecessary divide between mothers. Despite these issues, the findings highlight the personal and social meanings aligned with exclusive breastfeeding and point to the significance in fostering determination as a means to achieve exclusive breastfeeding goals. This qualitative reflection contributes a nuanced understanding of mothers’ lived experience of exclusive breastfeeding, deepening our understanding and enabling appropriate strategies and support for the longevity of exclusive breastfeeding, as well as direction for continued research.
Keywords
exclusive breastfeeding, women’s experiences, breastfeeding duration, determination, interpretative phenomenological analysis
Date
2019
Type
Journal article
Journal
Women and Birth
Book
Volume
32
Issue
1
Page Range
e34-e42
Article Number
ACU Department
School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine
Faculty of Health Sciences
Faculty of Health Sciences
Relation URI
Source URL
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
All rights reserved
File Access
Controlled
Notes
© 2018 Australian College of Midwives. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.