Document Type
Article
Department
School of Nursing and Midwifery, Pakistan, Paediatrics and Child Health
Abstract
Background: Healthcare professionals play a vital role in educating and supporting mothers about the importance and techniques of breastfeeding. However, many lack adequate training, knowledge, and confidence in breastfeeding counseling. To address this gap, the current study explores the experiences of breastfeeding counselors (BFCs) and peer counselors (PCs) involved in a breastfeeding counseling initiative within the larger BRANCH Study, “Nutritional Management of Growth Faltering in Infants Aged Under Six Months in Asia and Africa.” The study aims to gain deeper insight into their experiences delivering breastfeeding counseling and promoting breastfeeding practices among mothers.
Objectives: This study aims to explore counselors’ experiences with training for capacity building to support and promote breastfeeding among mothers. It also examines their perspectives on integrating training into practice, including facilitators and barriers encountered while performing the role of counselors.
Methods: An exploratory qualitative design will be employed as part of a sub-study, “(Nutritional management of growth faltering in infants aged under six months in Asia and Africa (BRANCH Study) (Breastfeeding counselling and management of growth)”, a multicenter trial. Data will be collected through focus group discussions (FGDs) with peer counsellors (PCs) and breastfeeding counsellors (BFCs). Purposive sampling will be done with 30 female participants working in two peri-urban sites of Karachi. Data will be analyzed using Creswell’s six-step thematic analysis framework.
Findings: This study is likely to develop insights into counselors’ experiences of breastfeeding training, including perceived effectiveness, skills development, and challenges in translating training into practice. It will also recognize key facilitators and barriers affecting the delivery of breastfeeding support in peri-urban settings.
Conclusion: The expected findings will inform the strengthening of breastfeeding training programs and support the development of relevant strategies to enhance counseling practices and improve breastfeedingrelated outcomes.
Recommended Citation
Gulzar, S, Rattani, S, Lalani, S, Mehmood, U, Naz, T, Barkat, A, Barolia, R, Kurji, Z, & Jehan, F. Exploring the experiences of breastfeeding counselors and peer counselors regarding capacity-building training: A qualitative research protocol. Journal of Asian Midwives. 2026;13(1):1–7.
