Latina migrants´ breastfeeding experiences living in a Spanish-speaking country : a qualitative descriptive study

Abstract

Background The migratory flows in Spain have changed due to the arrival of migrant population. Among them, the Latino collective predominated, of which more than one half are women of childbearing age. However, there is no previous study exploring their breastfeeding experiences in a country where their mother tongue is spoken. This study aimed to explore Latina migrants' breastfeeding experiences in a Spanish-speaking country. Methods A descriptive qualitative study was carried out. The study used intentional sampling. Study participants were contacted by video calls, and data were collected through a semi-structured in-depth interview (n = 19). The interviews were transcribed and analyzed by thematic analysis. Results The two main categories that emerged were breastfeeding facilitators and barriers, divided into ten interrelated subcategories: work conditions; precarious socioeconomic conditions; lack of support (health professionals, family and society); physiological changes, pain and fatigue; ignorance and wrong beliefs; support networks (partner health professionals and family); host country versus home country; religious practices/worship; appropriate attitude, knowledge and experience; breastfeeding support groups. Most of the study participants stated that their breastfeeding experiences were influenced by barriers such as work and by facilitators such as peer support. Conclusions More support from caregivers and more sensitivity to cultural diversity are demanded by women, and well-trained professionals are needed to extend breastfeeding for a longer time. This paper provides caregivers, such as nurses, more knowledge about the care demanded by migrant women to contribute to a longer breastfeeding experience.