Exploring the emotional impact of breastfeeding difficulties.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring the emotional impact of breastfeeding difficulties in the context of continued breastfeeding.
IRAS ID
221744
Contact name
Pauline Slade
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 2 months, 21 days
Research summary
What is the emotional impact of continued breastfeeding despite experiencing breastfeeding difficulties?
Breastfeeding difficulties are very common and can impact on the way women feed their baby. There is very little known about the emotional impact that breastfeeding difficulties can have on women who continue to breastfeed through these challenges. It is hoped that this study will help us to understand the experiences of women breastfeeding whilst experiencing difficulties, and what factors are important in supporting women to continue to breastfeed their baby.
The study will involve interviewing approximately ten women with a baby between the age of six and sixteen weeks, who have experienced breastfeeding difficulties lasting four weeks or more, and who are continuing to breastfeed. Women will be recruited through breastfeeding support groups and via breastfeeding peer supporters, and interviewed in their own home or within a children’s centre close to their home.
The research gathered will allow health professionals to tailor support to new mums experiencing breastfeeding difficulties, and to ensure that the emotional needs of breastfeeding women are better met.REC name
London - Brighton & Sussex Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/LO/0650
Date of REC Opinion
2 Aug 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion