Women's Breastfeeding Support Experiences in Ireland: A Qualitative Framework Analysis.

Abstract

Background: Breastfeeding rates in Ireland are among the lowest in the world. Social support networks influence initiation and duration.

Research aim: To describe pregnant and postpartum women's encounters and experiences with health care professionals, family, or friends around breastfeeding in Ireland.

Method: Using a qualitative framework design, data were collected as part of a wider study. Online diary entries were collected between October 2021 and May 2022. Participants reflected on their breastfeeding encounters, focusing on timing, context, and feelings evoked about breastfeeding support. These a priori categories were the starting point for analysis.

Results: Participants (N = 27) produced a total of 91 diary entries entered while participants were from 13 weeks pregnant to 30 weeks postpartum. Most interactions recorded were with family members, friends, and lactation support providers. Three themes were identified: (1) Family Circle of Influence, (2) It Takes a Village, and (3) Maternity Service Providers. "Family Circle of Influence" included reflections on the influence of those closest to participants on their breastfeeding journey. Partners and female relatives were generally supportive and provided emotional support, despite having concerns about the decision to breastfeed. "It Takes a Village" covered troubleshooting feeding issues with friends and support groups. Experiences within this wider community group were influential, positively and negatively. "Maternity Service Providers" captured information sources, skills provision, and conflicting advice, which sometimes undermined maternal confidence.

Conclusion: Participants' breastfeeding journeys included encounters with family, social networks, and wider health services. Cumulative diary entries provided reflections on the emotional impact of supportive or undermining interactions on breastfeeding decisions.