Breastfeeding preterm infants at home

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the experience of mothers regarding the breastfeeding of preterm newborns during the first month after discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit. Its theoretical framework was the symbolic interactionism and its methodological framework was qualitative content analysis. Nine mothers were interviewed. Results were described using three categories: ‘professional relationships and breastfeeding’, ‘unique traits of breastfeeding preterm infants’ and ‘responsibilities for nourishing infants’. Results show that mixed feeding is how mothers feed their preterm infants at home, given the fact that they are insecure and uncertain that their milk is enough. Health workers contribute to that understanding, and health practices must be transformed.