Process of Breast Feeding Mother's Adaptation

Kim, Sun Hee

doi:2009.15.3.186

Korean J Women Health Nurs > Volume 15(3); 2009 > Article

Original Article

Korean Journal of Women Health Nursing 2009;15(3):186-195.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.4069/kjwhn.2009.15.3.186

Process of Breast Feeding Mother's Adaptation

Sun Hee Kim

Department of Nursing Science, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea. carpesun@hanmail.net

Abstract

PURPOSE
This study aimed to explore the breast feeding processof mothersand to develop agroundedtheory about experiences of breast feeding women. METHODS: Data was collected by means of an in-depth interview from 8 participants who were breast feeding their baby. The data was analyzed using the grounded theory methodology proposed by Strauss and Corbin. RESULTS: The core category was discovered to be 'becoming a mother'. This process was categorized into 5 stages; 'facing difficulties of breast feeding', 'having the will to continue to breast feed', 'doing one's best to breast feed', 'feeling satisfactionwithone'sbreast feeding', and'retainingalingering desire for one's breast feeding'. Mothers began breast feeding without preparation. They faced difficult problems during breast feeding such as getting a lay-person's or professional person's support. They made various efforts for continuing to breast feed and solve the problems. They got pleasure from breast feeding, their baby is fine, and they have a bond with their baby. Finally, when they finished breast feeding, they still felt attached to it and had regrets. CONCLUSION: This study provided the information about mothers' experiences in the breast feedingprocess. Therefore, nurses will be ableto utilize successful adaptationskills forhelpingbreast feedingmothers.

Key Words: Adaptation; Breast feeding; Mother; Qualitative research