First-time mothers' experiences of breastfeeding during the early postpartum period in Nairobi, Kenya: a qualitative study

Document Type

Artefact

Department

School of Nursing and Midwifery, East Africa

Abstract

Background/Aims

The rate of exclusive breastfeeding in the first 6 months is still low, despite global active promotion of the practice. The exclusive breastfeeding rate among first-time mothers is much lower than among multiparous women, which has been attributed to difficulties assuming the new role and a lack of breastfeeding skills. This study aimed to gain an in-depth understanding of first-time mothers' breastfeeding experiences and the factors that influence these experiences during the early postpartum period in Nairobi, Kenya.

Methods

This qualitative explorative, descriptive study involved 17 purposively sampled first-time mothers at 4–6 weeks postpartum. In-depth, face-to-face semi-structured interviews were used to collect data, which were analysed using content analysis.

Results

Three major themes were identified: initiating and establishing breastfeeding, maintaining and continuing with breastfeeding and breastfeeding support. All mothers reported difficulties initiating breastfeeding, such as breast pain caused by cracked nipples and engorgement, a lack of proficiency in infant feeding and care and perceived milk insufficiency. Despite enabling factors, potential barriers to continuing exclusive breastfeeding persisted. Professional support was mainly received when initiating breastfeeding. Family, friends and peers offered support at initiation and maintenance of breastfeeding, however, some supportive gestures, such as suggesting supplementary feeds, were potential barriers to exclusive breastfeeding.

Conclusions

First-time mothers experienced breastfeeding difficulties when initiating and maintaining breastfeeding, and although there were enablers for practicing exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months, potential barriers also existed. This demonstrates the importance of addressing these problems and barriers at an individual and personal level.

AKU Student

no

Publication (Name of Journal)

African Journal of Midwifery and Women's Health

DOI

https://doi.org/10.12968/ajmw.2024.0024

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