Breastfeeding support for adolescent mothers: similarities and differences in the approach of midwives and qualified breastfeeding supporters
2006

Breastfeeding Support for Adolescent Mothers

Sample size: 24 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Victoria Hall Moran, Fiona Dykes, Susan Burt, Christina Shuck

Primary Institution: University of Central Lancashire

Hypothesis

What are the similarities and differences in the approaches of midwives and qualified breastfeeding supporters in supporting breastfeeding adolescent mothers?

Conclusion

Follow-up ethnographic work is needed to assess the differences in the supportive approaches of BfN supporters and midwives in practice areas.

Supporting Evidence

  • Both midwives and BfN supporters provided emotional support, emphasizing reassurance.
  • BfN supporters placed more emphasis on empathetic understanding and active listening.
  • Midwives were more directive in their approach compared to BfN supporters.
  • Both groups recognized the importance of network support from family and peers.

Takeaway

This study looked at how midwives and breastfeeding supporters help young mothers with breastfeeding, finding that they have different ways of providing support.

Methodology

Qualitative methods using vignettes to evaluate the supportive approaches of 12 midwives and 12 BfN supporters.

Potential Biases

Self-selection bias may affect the representativeness of the midwives and BfN supporters.

Limitations

The small sample size and self-selection of participants limit generalizability.

Participant Demographics

Participants included adolescent mothers aged 16-19, primarily white, and midwives and BfN supporters with varying years of experience.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1746-4358-1-23

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