An exploration of breastfeeding practices by Bhutanese women

BACKGROUND:: Researchers have shown beneficial influences of exclusive breastfeeding for women and infants. Therefore, the World Health Organization recommends exclusively breastfeeding infants for the first 6 months following birth. In Bhutan, researchers have found, through survey research, variable exclusive breastfeeding rates at 6 months. They have not, however, explored the experiences and views of participants in relation to breastfeeding. RESEARCH AIM:: The aim was to explore first-time mothers' views, intentions, and experiences related to exclusive breastfeeding. METHODS:: A qualitative, prospective, longitudinal, descriptive study was undertaken using semistructured, audio-recorded interviews at two points of time with first-time mothers prenatally during late third trimester ( n = 24) and at 6 weeks after birth ( n = 22). The framework approach to analysis was used to identify themes. RESULTS:: Two themes (breastfeeding, but uncertainty about achieving exclusive breastfeeding and acceptance that breastfeeding is painful) were identified from interviews at term. Five themes were identified from interviews at 6 weeks after birth (lack of timely breastfeeding information and support from health professionals, misconceptions about exclusive breastfeeding, being unprepared for the reality of breastfeeding, limited control or choice over feeding, and adoption of cultural and traditional practices). CONCLUSION:: The participants breastfed but did not practice exclusive breastfeeding due to a lack of timely breastfeeding information and inadequate breastfeeding support. While family elders supported breastfeeding, they also promoted the adoption of certain traditional and cultural practices, which affected exclusive breastfeeding.