A phenomenological study on understanding of mothers' knowledge on breast feeding practices in Malaysia

Jamil, Nurul Akma and Muda, Siti Mariam and Aung, Khin Thandar (2017) A phenomenological study on understanding of mothers' knowledge on breast feeding practices in Malaysia. IOSR Journal of Nursing and Health Science, 6 (2). pp. 12-16. ISSN 2320-1940 E-ISSN 2320-1959

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Abstract

Realizing the importance of children’s nutrition, the World Health Organization strive vast effort to ensure revitalize promotion and protection of infant and young child feeding. Despite its benefits, the breastfeeding rate was still low worldwide including Malaysia. Based upon the findings of the scientific research, it was expected to contribute significant effects on people’s knowledge and perception towards breastfeeding practice. In Malaysia, breastfeeding was found to be dominantly practiced among Malay. The qualitative study design was used to explore Malay mother’s knowledge on the benefits of breastfeeding towards maternal and infant’s health. Fifteen mothers who currently breastfeed their children were recruited by purposive sampling method for this study. Data were collected by in-depth interview using a semi-structured interview guide. Data obtained were analyzed using thematic analysis. Due to study findings, mothers were aware on the nutritional and protective factors contain in breast milk. However, the misperception on colostrum still exists and it was conveyed by influential people in mothers’ life. Mothers perceived breastfeeding could help in maintaining their appearance following child birth. It protects mothers by minimizing the risk of postpartum haemorrhage and incidence of breast cancer. Mothers in this study recognized breastfeeding as a form of birth control. Even so, they doubted on its effectiveness because of lack of understanding on the mechanism of lactation amenorrhea. Social media, health care professionals particularly staff nurses, and breastfeeding support group were the first three most cited source of information by the mothers in this study. According to culture and religious in Malaysia, family greatly support to breast feeding mothers during their breast-feeding period. However, continuing of the breast feeding depends on mother’s knowledge and decision. Therefore, as the health care providers, especially nurses who are closely with mothers keeps on giving health education regarding breast feeding practice to enhance their knowledge and understanding.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Additional Information:	5458/56387
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Breast feeding practice, knowledge, mother, Malaysia
Subjects:	R Medicine > RG Gynecology and obstetrics R Medicine > RT Nursing
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Nursing > Department of Critical Care Nursing Kulliyyah of Nursing > Department of Special Care Nursing
Depositing User:	Dr Khin Thandar Aung
Date Deposited:	11 Apr 2017 15:04
Last Modified:	21 Apr 2018 17:01
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/56387

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