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Abstract

Background: Breastfeeding is widely acknowledged as the best feeding method for newborns, providing numerous health benefits for both mothers and babies. However, breastfeeding rates remain below average in many countries. Breastfeeding support plays a crucial role in promoting successful breastfeeding experiences, and midwives are key providers of this support.


Objective: This study aimed to explore the experiences of postnatal mothers and midwives’ perceptions regarding breastfeeding support at the General Hospital, Ekpan, Delta State, Nigeria.


Methods: A phenomenological research design was employed to delve into the subjective experiences and meanings ascribed to breastfeeding support. Data were collected through focus group discussions with postnatal mothers and key informant interviews with midwives. Thematic analysis was conducted using ATLAS.ti software to identify emerging themes and sub-themes.


Results: The findings revealed that mothers had positive and negative experiences, recognized the importance of breastfeeding, and understood its duration and benefits. They emphasized the significance of colostrum and highlighted breastfeeding duration as lasting about one year or more. The midwives demonstrated a clear understanding of breastfeeding recommendations and perceived themselves as educators, providing valuable tips and techniques to mothers.


Conclusion: This study shed light on postnatal mothers' experiences and midwives’ perspectives regarding breastfeeding support. The findings show the importance of comprehensive support to promote successful breastfeeding practices. Recommendations include improving on health promotion to improve attitudes towards breastfeeding, breastfeeding mothers and staffing levels, providing essential resources, enhancing midwives job security and remuneration, and delivering clear and accessible information to mothers. By implementing these recommendations, healthcare institutions can create an environment that fosters effective breastfeeding support and ultimately improves breastfeeding rates among breastfeeding women.

Keywords

Breastfeeding Breastfeeding support Breastfeeding Mothers Midwives Perceptions

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Copyright (c) 2023 Juliet Avwerosuo Alabrah, Faith Chinaemerem Diorgu, Olayinka Onasoga

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Author Biography

Faith Chinaemerem Diorgu, Africa Centre of Excellence in Public Health and Toxicological Research (ACE-PUTOR), University of Port-Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Professor of Midwifery, Department of Nursing Science University of Port-Harcourt Rivers State Nigeria.

How to Cite
Alabrah, J. A., Diorgu, F. C., & Onasoga , O. (2023). Maternal Experiences and Midwives Perspectives on Breastfeeding Support in a General Hospital Setting: A Qualitative Study. Journal of Public Health and Toxicological Research, 1(1), 24–29. Retrieved from https://jphtr.com/index.php/journal/article/view/14
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