Women’s experiences of formula feeding their infants: an interpretative phenomenological study

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to explore the experiences of women in the process of formula feeding their infants. The World Health Organization has emphasized the importance of breastfeeding for infant health. After decades of breastfeeding promotions, breastfeeding rates in Hong Kong have been rising consistently; however, the low continuation rate is alarming. This study explores women’s experiences with formula feeding their infants, including factors affecting their decision to do so. Methods A qualitative approach using an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was adopted as the study design. Data were collected from 2014 to 2015 through individual in-depth unstructured interviews with 16 women, conducted between 3 and 12 months after the birth of their infant. Data were analyzed using IPA. Results Three main themes emerged as follows: (1) self-struggle, with the subthemes of feeling like a milk cow and feeling trapped; (2) family conflict, with the subtheme of sharing the spotlight; and (3) interpersonal tensions, with the subthemes of embarrassment, staring, and innocence. Many mothers suffered various stressors and frustrations during breastfeeding. These findings suggest a number of pertinent areas that need to be considered in preparing an infant feeding campaign. Conclusions The findings of this study reinforce our knowledge of women’s struggles with multiple sources of pressure, such as career demands, childcare demands, and family life after giving birth. All mothers should be given assistance in making informed decisions about the optimal approach to feeding their babies given their individual situation and be provided with support to pursue their chosen feeding method.

Formula Feeding Practice and Associated Factors Among Mothers Who Visited Health Facilities for Their Infants Aged Below 6 Months in Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia, 2020

“…This study is consistent with the studies done in Dire Dawa and Hong Kong. 27,44 A study in Hong Kong Kong found women to be more likely to initiate discussions about infant feeding with family and friends because healthcare providers perceived them as not being supportive of formula feeding. Advice from friends, neighbors, and family heavily influenced the initiation of infant formula feeding.…”

Goat’s milk-based formula when choosing artificial feeding for a newborn and a first-year baby

“…Однако исследование показало, что матери игнорировали неудобства кормления смесью, например, такие как мытье бутылочки для кормления, стоимость смеси, особенно некоторых из наиболее известных брендов и т. п. [10,11].…”

Young adults’ perceptions of breastfeeding in public: a focus group study

“…Finding ways to increase mothers' level of interest in and enthusiasm for the practice would be useful because mothers with a genuine interest in it are relatively more committed to the practice and more satisfied with better psychological well-being. 36,[49][50][51]…”