Breastfeeding support given by health care providers and society : a qualitative study investigating perspectives of women living in the Southern Suburbs of Beirut

Abstract

Breastfeeding is proved to be protective against numerous common illnesses among infants in the world, and is reported to significantly decrease infant mortality rates in developing countries. Following the WorldΓÇÖs health organization guidelines of breastfeeding (i.e. to breastfeed for six months exclusively and continue breastfeeding until at least two years of life) has been shown to strengthen its positive effects. The Literature from Lebanon points to a problem of breastfeeding continuation and exclusivity, with lower rates among women living in urban settings. Research has recognized the importance of breastfeeding support from health care providers and society on breastfeeding decisions, particularly breastfeeding duration and exclusivity. The purpose of this qualitative study is to explore the perceptions of breastfeeding women living in the southern suburbs of Beirut about the support, information and advice they receive regarding breastfeeding from health care providers and the society at large. Twenty two pregnant women in their last trimester of pregnancy were recruited from seven dispensaries located in the southern suburbs of Beirut. Up to five semi-structured interviews were done with each woman during the period between their last trimester of pregnancy and six months after delivery or until they have discontinued breastfeeding. Thematic analysis was conducted. Among the important alarming themes identified in the study is the lack of informational support from health care providers. Also, according to mothersΓÇÖ perceptions, support from husbands was important, and was perceived as ΓÇ£emotionalΓÇ¥ support. In addition, a set of misconceptions about breastfeeding was identified among which are ΓÇ£breast milk is insufficientΓÇ¥ and ΓÇ£breastfeeding is determined geneticallyΓÇ¥. Besides that, among the sources of stress that acted as barriers to breastfeeding according to participants were ΓÇ£short maternity leaveΓÇ¥, ΓÇ£social interferenceΓÇ¥ and