Breastfeeding experiences among Thai adolescent mothers: A descriptive qualitative study

Abstract

The benefits of breastfeeding for the health of mothers and their infants are well-recognized. In comparison to other age groups of mothers, however, adolescent mothers have lower rates of breastfeeding duration and exclusivity. To develop unique breastfeeding intervention, it is crucial to understand what adolescent mothers perceive about breastfeeding. This study explored Thai adolescent mothers' experiences related to breastfeeding for the first six months. A descriptive qualitative design was conducted using semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Twenty adolescent mothers were purposively recruited. Descriptive statistics and content analysis were used for data analysis. The findings revealed that adolescent mothers explained their breastfeeding experiences through the following five themes: identifying positive aspects of breastfeeding; breastfeeding challenges; social support; returning to work/studies, and breastfeeding in public. These themes were found to be related to breastfeeding decisions, duration, and exclusivity. Breastfeeding experiences among Thai adolescent mothers showed complex factors involving multilevel influences of social systems. Therefore, promotion and support of successful breastfeeding should recognize the influences of personal factors of adolescent mothers and their environments simultaneously, particularly complexity of family problems. Nurse professionals should provide breastfeeding knowledge and skills during the antenatal period adding family involvement, especially infants' grandmothers. Moreover, understanding unique adolescents and their needs should be emphasized in breastfeeding promotion programs in order to reduce breastfeeding difficulties and increase breastfeeding sustainability. Planning to overcome breastfeeding barriers within schools, workplaces and the public should be supported and encouraged among adolescent mothers and their families.