Exploration of factors influencing women's breastfeeding experiences following a caesarean section

Aim. The purpose of this study was to explore factors influencing women's breastfeeding experiences following caesarean section (CS). 

Method. An in-depth qualitative study was undertaken, underpinned by the theoretical perspective of symbolic interactionism. This study explored factors that were identified by women, not the researchers. The principles of a grounded theory approach were utilised to enable a structured analysis. This exploratory study was designed to capture the breastfeeding experiences of two different groups of women. A purposive sample of ten women was recruited from a hospital in the north west of England. The first group consisted of five mothers who had their babies with them on the postnatal ward. The other group of five women had babies that were admitted to the neonatal unit. Women were interviewed on one occasion during the postnatal period. The interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. Data were managed with the aid of a qualitative software package and analysed following coding with a manual method. 

Findings. The analysis revealed three themes: maternal vulnerability, supportive care and regaining closeness. The findings suggest that the care mothers' experience during and after their CS might limit or in fact add to the emotional and physical trauma and impact on their feeding outcome. 

Conclusion. The authors conclude that existing services appear to provide inadequate support for women who are breastfeeding, following caesarean section. Future services require engagement with women and the development of a women-centered approach.