Date of Award

10-13-2025

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MSc in Nursing

First Advisor

Dr. Naghma Rizvi

Second Advisor

Ms. Kiran Mubeen

Third Advisor

Ms. Marine Baig

Department

School of Nursing and Midwifery, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Breastfeeding is universally acknowledged as the significant source of nutrition for newborns, contributing to health benefits for infants and mothers. However, women who deliver via cesarean section frequently face significant barriers to initiating and continuing breastfeeding. Postoperative pain, delayed breastfeeding, maternal fatigue, and the effect of healthcare practices may all negatively impact breastfeeding outcomes. In Pakistan, where cultural norms, family involvement, and healthcare practices strongly influence maternal decisions, exploring these challenges becomes particularly important.  
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore breastfeeding experiences among women after cesarean section in secondary and tertiary care hospitals of AKUH, Karachi, Pakistan.  
Method: A qualitative descriptive design was used. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with post-cesarean mothers employed through purposive sampling. Data were transcribed, translated, and thematically analyzed. Codes were developed inductively and grouped into subcategories, categories, and broader themes to capture the depth of maternal experiences. 
Findings: The findings highlighted multiple challenges faced by mothers for breastfeeding after cesarean section. Most mothers expressed experiencing physical difficulties such as pain at the incision site, problems with positioning, and delayed lactation. And many mothers reported emotional distress, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy were also noted, especially when initial breastfeeding attempts were unsuccessful. Participants highlighted important role of family members and particularly importance of involving husbands in breastfeeding journeys and others also emphasized importance of nursing staff in proving encouragement and physical assistance. Other than barriers many mothers expressed feeling of resilient and empowerment, experiencing determination to breastfeed their infants for their health and bonding.  
Conclusion: The study highlights that while cesarean delivery delivers multiple challenges for mothers, encourage and positive environment, family involvement plays important role in breastfeeding experiences. This study also highlights the need for targeted breastfeeding support programs in post-cesarean care, emphasizing early initiation, pain management, and family involvement, especially husband.

First Page

1

Last Page

141

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