2019 Volume 33 Issue 1 Pages 3-13
Objectives
This study aimed to examine ideas that mothers accompanying hospitalized infants have about breastfeeding and their underlying thoughts, as well as the psychology that accompanies such ideas, and to discuss support for mothers who continue to breastfeed while accompanying their infants in the hospital.
Patients and Methods
We conducted semi-structured interviews with 11 mothers, who had continued breastfeeding while accompanying their infants aged <1 year who were hospitalized in three medical facilities with pediatric inpatient wards. The mothers were asked to recall their experience of breastfeeding while accompanying their hospitalized infants at 3-5 months after their infants were discharged. The mothers' ideas about breastfeeding, underlying thoughts, and the psychology accompanying breastfeeding. Data obtained from these interviews were analyzed qualitatively and inductively.
Results
Among mothers' ideas about breastfeeding were “continue breastfeeding in the same way as before,” “breast milk is best for babies' growth and development,” and “it is what I can do as a mother of a struggling child.” Underlying these ideas were “unshakable values regarding breastfeeding,” “responsibility as a parent,” and “connection to the child through breast milk.” As for the psychology associated with breastfeeding, “the mother's role that is not smoothly fulfilled,” “conflict with one's ideas about and actual state of breastfeeding,” “opportunity to engage in childcare,” and “appreciation for support” were extracted.
Conclusions
As a form of support to increase the positive feelings among mothers as they live their lives accompanying their nursing infant in the hospital, nurses must continue to support the mothers' thoughts on breastfeeding. As nurses gain knowledge regarding support for breastfeeding, address the concerns of mothers, request support from an early stage from midwives when necessary, have an ongoing understanding of the concerns of mothers, and provide an environment where they are easily approachable, these become an awareness for opportunities to be thankful toward the support and an opportunity to focus on childcare. Through this process, we surmise that mothers will be able to develop positive thinking and confidence about breastfeeding.
