A qualitative evaluation of a breastfeeding peer counselor program

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Community Health Programs
• Maternal and Child Health

Background:

• The Breastfeeding Initiative program is a collaboration between the Michigan Department of Community Health and Michigan State University Extension.
• The program aims to increase breastfeeding rates among low-income women through peer counselor support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the strengths, operational procedures, and areas for improvement of the Breastfeeding Initiative program.
• To gather perspectives from both program participants and peer counselors.

Main Methods:

• Six focus groups were conducted, with three involving peer counselors and three involving program participants.
• Qualitative data was collected to understand user experiences and program dynamics.

Main Results:

• Both peer counselors and participants expressed satisfaction with the program's services, citing emotional and practical support, and the provision of breast pumps.
• Peer counselors reported high job satisfaction derived from intrinsic rewards but noted challenges with inadequate resources and recognition.
• Significant variation was observed in the program's operating procedures across different contexts.

Conclusions:

• The peer counselor model is effective in supporting low-income breastfeeding women.
• Program improvements could include service expansion, enhanced support for peer counselors, and standardization of operational procedures.