Existential security is a necessary condition for continued breastfeeding despite severe initial difficulties: a...

Area of Science:

• Maternal Health
• Lactation Studies
• Psychosocial Aspects of Motherhood

Background:

• Many Swedish mothers initiate breastfeeding but face difficulties, often leading to early cessation.
• Understanding the lived experiences of mothers facing severe initial breastfeeding challenges is crucial for developing effective support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and understand how the meaning of severe initial breastfeeding difficulties influences the decision to continue or cease breastfeeding.

Main Methods:

• A lifeworld hermeneutical approach was employed.
• Qualitative interviews were conducted with eight mothers in Sweden experiencing severe initial breastfeeding difficulties.
• Fifteen interviews were conducted across two sessions between 2010 and 2013.

Main Results:

• Mothers felt overwhelmed by infant needs, their bodies, emotions (anger, loneliness), and healthcare interactions.
• These overwhelming feelings triggered an existential crisis, a turning point where the decision to breastfeed was negotiated.
• The decision hinged on achieving security in the breastfeeding relationship; dominance of insecurity could lead to a fear of breastfeeding, necessitating cessation.

Conclusions:

• Existential security within the breastfeeding relationship is vital for maternal confidence and continuing breastfeeding amidst severe difficulties.
• Unresolved insecurity can create a significant barrier, manifesting as a fear of breastfeeding and potentially leading to cessation.
• The study underscores the complex interplay of cultural, biological, and existential factors influencing a mother's breastfeeding decision, with her sense of responsibility guiding the outcome.