A Qualitative Study on Mothers’ Experiences in Making Breastfeeding Decisions in The Indonesian Context

Abstract

Background: The breastfeeding decision-making process is crucial during the perinatal period, as it has implications for child health and development. However, research focusing on this process is still limited, particularly in the Indonesian context. Aim: This study aims to explore mothers' experiences in making breastfeeding decisions during the perinatal period, from pregnancy to six months postpartum.

Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted from October 2022 to February 2023. Nine mothers participated in this study. In-depth semi-structured interviews were applied to generate the data. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse the data.

Results: Mothers applied different approaches in making breastfeeding decisions. This study identified several barriers to decision-making: a lack of awareness regarding the importance of breastfeeding, nomadic antenatal care, and low involvement from husbands. The mothers who decided to discontinue breastfeeding often experienced feelings of guilt.

Conclusion: It is essential to improve awareness of the importance of the decision-making process. Healthcare professionals should be equipped with the necessary knowledge and support for each infant feeding approach. Furthermore, encouraging spousal participation in the decision-making process is crucial.

Keywords: Breastfeeding supports; Breastfeeding; Decision-making barriers; Infant feeding decision-making; Infant feeding methods

Background: The breastfeeding decision-making process is crucial during the perinatal period, as it has implications for child health and development. However, research focusing on this process is still limited, particularly in the Indonesian context. Aim: This study aims to explore mothers' experiences in making breastfeeding decisions during the perinatal period, from pregnancy to six months postpartum. Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted from October 2022 to February 2023. Nine mothers participated in this study. In-depth semi-structured interviews were applied to generate the data. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse the data. Results: Mothers applied different approaches in making breastfeeding decisions. This study identified several barriers to decision-making: a lack of awareness regarding the importance of breastfeeding, nomadic antenatal care, and low involvement from husbands. The mothers who decided to discontinue breastfeeding often experienced feelings of guilt. Conclusion: It is essential to improve awareness of the importance of the decision-making process. Healthcare professionals should be equipped with the necessary knowledge and support for each infant feeding approach. Furthermore, encouraging spousal participation in the decision-making process is crucial.