Instrumental Support Needs of Breastfeeding Mothers: A Qualitative Study in Iran

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Research Article

Authors

1 Professor, Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynecology, Milad (Mashhad) Infertility Center, Mashhad, Iran

2 Professor, School of Nursing and Midwifery , Department of Midwifery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran

10.22038/jmrh.2024.78918.2359

Abstract

Background & aims: Breastfeeding is an important strategy to promote health and well-being.
 Breastfeeding rates continue to decline worldwide, making protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding a public health priority. The aim of this study was to explore breastfeeding mothers' perceptions and experiences of their need for instrumental support.
Methods: The study was conducted in five health centers and four hospitals of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences between March 2018 and April 2020. A qualitative approach was used in which 36 lactating mothers, their families, and health care providers participated in individual semi-structured in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed using targeted content analysis based on the Elo and Kyngas approach using MAXQDA software (version 2010).
Results: five emerged categories of ‘facilitating maternal roles’, ‘supply necessary items’, ‘welfare services’, ‘cultural services’ and ‘healthcare services’ were the results of data analysis of mothers’ instrumental support needs.
Conclusion: Mothers need instrumental support to continue breastfeeding. Essential caregivers such as husbands, family members and health professionals play a vital role in meeting the instrumental support needs of breastfeeding mothers.

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Journal of Midwifery and Reproductive Health

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 29 July 2024

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