The Breastfeeding Journey Among Mothers: A Qualitative Study from Pregnancy Preparation to Postpartum Coping and Decision Making
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26911/jepublichealth.2026.11.04.09Abstract
Background: Breastfeeding does not always progress as mothers anticipate during pregnancy, as challenges may emerge during the postnatal period and affect their breastfeeding experiences and decisions. However, few studies have explored the breastfeeding journey as a continuous process, from preparation during pregnancy through postnatal coping and decision making. This study aimed to explore mothers’ experiences throughout their breastfeeding journey, from pregnancy preparation to the postnatal period, including their coping and decision-making.
Subjects and Methods: This descriptive qualitative study was conducted at Mamina, Malang, East Java from August-September 2026. Eleven mothers with infants aged 0-3 months who had breastfeeding experience were purposively selected. Recruitment continued until subsequent interviews provided largely repetitive information. Data were collected through face-to-face in-depth semi-structured interviews lasting 45–60 minutes and analyzed using NVivo software and reflexive thematic analysis.
Results: Four themes have come out of the interviews conducted; they include (1) Preparation for breastfeeding during pregnancy, (2) Childbirth and childbirth experiences in health care institutions, (3) Transition into breastfeeding at home and problems experienced, and (4) Coping strategies and decision making. While some mothers were not well prepared for breastfeeding, other mothers took initiative to search for information via social media, relatives, and friends. Postpartum, some mothers faced difficulties in practicing what they have been learning on breastfeeding. There was inconsistency in the kind of help that mothers received from the health care practitioners on breastfeeding. Mothers encountered problems related to breastfeeding after going home, including positioning and attachment, nipple soreness or flatness, engorgement, plugged ducts, worry about low milk supply, among other problems. In response, mothers sought for information or help, tried new strategies, got support from the surrounding and adapted the methods of breastfeeding depending on themselves and their babies.
Conclusion: Mothers’ breastfeeding experiences changed as they encountered different situations after childbirth. Breastfeeding support therefore needs to continue beyond preparation during pregnancy and address the practical and emotional difficulties mothers may experience at home.
Keywords:
breastfeeding, lactating mothers, lactation support, postpartumHow to Cite
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