Abstract
Background:
Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is crucial for infant survival and health, yet global rates remain low, including in South Africa. This is especially true for babies admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Postnatal mothers of NICU-admitted neonates face unique challenges in maintaining EBF.
Aim:
To explore and describe postnatal mothers' experiences regarding EBF of neonates admitted to the NICU at a selected hospital in the North West province.
Method:
A qualitative, exploratory, and contextual design was used to explore and describe the experiences of postnatal mothers with the EBF of neonates admitted to the NICU. Purposive sampling selected 10 breastfeeding NICU mothers. Individual, in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. Giorgi's phenomenological analytic approach was used to identify emerging themes.
Findings:
Two main themes emerged: Negative experiences and positive experiences. Negative experiences included lack of bonding, insufficient supply of expressed breastmilk, inadequate knowledge, financial constraints, and lack of mother-lodger accommodation. Positive experiences involved support systems and outcomes of NICU discharge.
Significance:
This study provides insights into the challenges and possible support affecting EBF among postnatal mothers in the NICU setting. Findings can inform improvements in hospital policies, healthcare provider education, and support services for NICU mothers to promote EBF. Recommendations include implementing supportive measures such as internal institutional policies and health education for nursing personnel to improve current EBF practices.