What Women Really Think About Breastfeeding and Breast Pumping: A Qualitative Analysis of Women Who Deliver at a Baby-Friendly Hospital

Abstract

Introduction:

The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative has had a positive impact on breastfeeding initiation; however, posthospital exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rates remain low. We aimed to analyze thoughts and attitudes toward breastfeeding at the postpartum visit among women who deliver at a Baby-Friendly hospital.

Methods:

Women ≥14 years who delivered a live-born infant at our center were eligible. Participants completed an infant feeding questionnaire at the postpartum visit recording patient and delivery characteristics, antepartum care and infant feeding details, reasons for breastfeeding discontinuation or formula initiation, workplace environment, and cultural beliefs about breastfeeding. Thematic coding via line-by-line analysis of the free responses was performed using NVivo12 by QSR international.

Results:

Of 263 participants, 110 responded to the open-ended question. Of these, 53 and 46 were negative-toned and positive-toned, respectively. Negative breastfeeding responses related to the mother addressed the need for more support, low milk supply, pressure to breastfeed and feelings of guilt if unsuccessful, maternal health issues, painful breastfeeding, and high time requirements. Negative breastfeeding responses about the baby included concerns about infant health, latching issues, and disinterest. Positive responses focused on the support system, maternal weight loss, health benefits for baby, and mom-baby bonding. Some women (27) commented specifically on pumping. Negative comments noted that pumping led to less milk production, was time consuming, and was too much work. Positive comments about pumping noted that it is a convenient alternative to breastfeeding.

Conclusion:

Efforts to improve posthospital EBF rates in accordance with national guidelines must acknowledge the complex experience of breastfeeding mothers.