Exclusive breastfeeding experience among healthcare working mothers in central Tanzania: A qualitative study

Elihuruma Eliufoo; Shedrack Mgeyekwa; Victoria Majengo; Tian Yusheng; Li Yamin

doi:10.18502/npt.v11i3.16173

Elihuruma Eliufoo Clinical Nursing Teaching and Research Section, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
Shedrack Mgeyekwa Department of Clinical Nursing, School of Nursing and Public Health, The University of Dodoma, Dodoma, Tanzania
Victoria Majengo Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Decca College of Health and Allied Science, Dodoma, Tanzania
Tian Yusheng Clinical Nursing Teaching and Research Section, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
Li Yamin Clinical Nursing Teaching and Research Section, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/npt.v11i3.16173

Keywords: breast milk; exclusive breastfeeding; healthcare working mothers; experience; challenges

Abstract

Background & Aim: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is essential for infant health, yet the global prevalence is below target. Tanzania is facing challenges in promoting EBF due to sociocultural and economic factors. Despite efforts, rates remained low, especially among working mothers. The experience of healthcare-working mothers in EBF is underexplored despite facing unique challenges like irregular schedules and workplace stressors. This study aims to explore healthcare-working women's experiences with EBF.

Methods & Materials: This qualitative study involves fifteen participants from two referral hospitals in Tanzania. We employed semi-structured interviews to explore the significance of their lived experiences while keeping the interview on track. We sampled our participants using purposive and snowball sampling. The interviews were recorded using a digital audio recorder and transcribed verbatim. Then, thematic analysis was used to analyze data.

Results: Participants shared insights into their EBF practices, highlighting the significance of breastfeeding knowledge and its benefits for mothers and children. Key themes identified were healthcare-working mothers' knowledge and practice of EBF, balancing EBF and work, and barriers to EBF while working. Mothers emphasized EBF's health and emotional benefits, noting strategies to ensure sufficient milk supply and challenges in maintaining EBF due to work demands, fatigue, and physiological discomforts. Support systems at home and workplace policies were crucial for facilitating EBF, yet the availability of alternative milk sometimes hindered sustained EBF.

Conclusion: This research provides valuable insights into the experiences of healthcare-working mothers in EBF. The findings underscore the importance of promoting supportive environments, workplace policies, and social networks to facilitate exclusive breastfeeding continuation for working mothers.