Journal article
Western Australian women's experiences of breastfeeding support
Breastfeeding Review, Vol.30(3), pp.7-17
2022
Abstract
Many formalised breastfeeding supports have been implemented in Australia, however breastfeeding duration still falls well short of national and global targets. A re-exploration of how women currently seek, interact with and respond to the support provided them can assist in informing further change. We used 'narrative inquiry' to examine the stories of seven women's lived experiences of support whilst establishing breastfeeding and collected data through audio-recorded conversations, transcribed verbatim stories, retold narratives, and researcher reflexive journaling. Clandinin and Connelly's framework (2000) was used to inform analysis by enabling an understanding of the relational aspects and the changeable nature of mothers' experiences. Thematic data analysis revealed four themes: 'trusting in the "natural"', 'navigating the complexity of the breastfeeding journey', 'battling others' assumptions', and 'finding strength in supportive environments'. All mothers found strength in the supportive interactions they experienced from professional, peer and family support. However, mothers also encountered many barriers, indicating remaining deficits in the support offered to breastfeeding mothers. The support experienced could be improved by encouraging more positive societal attitudes and developing a more knowledgeable, non-judgemental health system that delivers anticipatory, rather than reactive support responses. This will encourage the recognition of individuality, and support breastfeeding self-efficacy and the role of family support in overcoming breastfeeding difficulties.
Details
- Title
- Western Australian women's experiences of breastfeeding support
- Authors/Creators
- R. PhoebeC. FetherstonC. Nilson - Murdoch University, Ngangk Yira Institute for Change
- Publication Details
- Breastfeeding Review, Vol.30(3), pp.7-17
- Publisher
- Australian Breastfeeding Association
- Identifiers
- 991005550570007891
- Copyright
- © 2022 Australian Breastfeeding Association
- Murdoch Affiliation
- Ngangk Yira Institute for Change
- Resource Type
- Journal article
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