A Qualitative Study on Mothers' Experiences of Breastfeeding Cessation in Turkey

Ending the breastfeeding process is a challenging decision for both mother and baby. However, cessation of breastfeeding is an inevitable stage for many mother-infant dyads and often represents the baby's first experience of separation from the mother.

This study aimed to explore the experiences of mothers with infants aged 0-36 months who had undergone the process of breastfeeding cessation.

A phenomenological qualitative research design was adopted. Participants were selected through purposive sampling from various regions of Turkey, and data collection continued until saturation (N = 14 mothers; mean age 29.4 years, all with infants aged 0-36 months). Semistructured online interviews were conducted. Data were coded independently by two researchers and analyzed through content analysis.

Thematic analysis revealed five main themes: (1) reasons for breastfeeding, (2) factors influencing the decision to cease breastfeeding, (3) methods used for cessation, (4) facilitators and barriers during the process, and (5) emotional responses to cessation.

Mothers' decisions to cease breastfeeding were primarily influenced by fatigue, sleep deprivation, and perceived decreases in milk supply. Key facilitating factors included maternal determination, a supportive environment, and reduced breastfeeding demand from the infant. While some mothers felt relieved post-cessation, others, particularly those who used traditional aversive methods, expressed regret.