Early breastfeeding problems: A mixed method study of mothers' experiences

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Lactation Studies
• Maternal and Child Health

Background:

• Reduced postpartum hospital stays limit professional support for new mothers establishing breastfeeding.
• Breastfeeding problems are a significant factor in early breastfeeding cessation.
• Understanding maternal perspectives on early breastfeeding challenges is crucial for improving support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore mothers' experiences of the most challenging early postnatal breastfeeding problems.
• To identify factors associated with these breastfeeding challenges.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study utilizing postal survey data from 1437 mothers.
• Mixed-methods approach including content analysis of open-text descriptions and logistic regression.
• Analysis of sociodemographic and psychosocial factors influencing breastfeeding problems.

Main Results:

• 40% of mothers reported early breastfeeding problems, linked to maternal, infant, and support factors.
• Common issues included infant latch-on difficulties (40%) and sore/cracked nipples (38%), often causing pain.
• Primiparity, lower self-efficacy, and perceived knowledge deficits were associated with increased problems.

Conclusions:

• Early postnatal breastfeeding problems are frequent, often painful, and contribute to cessation.
• Healthcare professionals need to better prepare mothers for potential breastfeeding difficulties.
• Enhanced postnatal discharge support is recommended to address early breastfeeding challenges.