To examine breastfeeding supports for mothers: A National Study Dr. Patricia Leahy-Warren Ms. Helen Mulcahy Ms. Agnes Phelan

Objectives Introduction and background Methodology Demographic characteristics of sample Findings relating to: –Experiences & satisfaction with B/F support –Comparison of PHN & Mothers infant feeding attitudes –Availability, use & satisfaction with B/F supports Conclusion Implications for clinical practice

Background 5 year strategic Action Plan for Breastfeeding (DOH&C, 2005) –Action 12 “the public health nursing service will be adequately supported to meet the needs of breastfeeding mothers in the community” (p. 34)

Breastfeeding support Formal –Voluntary Trained peer counsellors, LLL, Cuidiú (Clifford & McIntyre, 2008; Dykes, 2004; Graffy, Eldridge, Taylor, & Williams, 2004) –Statutory HCP, visits, support groups, well-baby clinics (Dennis, 2002) Informal –Own mothers –Partners –Family –Friends (Clifford & McIntyre, 2008; Hall Moran, Edwards, Dykes & Downe, 2007)

Methodology A quantitative, cross sectional study Randomised national sample of mothers with children under three years of age (n=1854) and PHNs (n = 204) holding a child health caseload Self report questionnaires completed by mail or online Ethical approval granted

Maternal Characteristics

Distribution of PHNs by HSE Region

Mothers’ Current Breastfeeding Status

Feeding method of mothers whose baby was aged 0-6 months

Mothers’ Experiences of Breastfeeding Support from Informal sources

Mothers’ Satisfaction with Formal Breastfeeding Support

Infant Feeding Attitude Scale : PHNs and Mothers Infant Feeding Attitude Scale (IIFAS) (de La Mora & Russell, 1999)

Availability & Use of Breastfeeding Support Services

Satisfaction Rates with Breastfeeding Support Services in Rank Order

Mothers indicated that the baby’s father was very supportive of breastfeeding and maternal grandmother less so. Mothers were satisfied with formal breastfeeding support. PHNs had a significantly more positive attitude towards breastfeeding than Mothers The highest satisfaction rates for breastfeeding support services were chat rooms, forums, interactive blogs & PHN drop-in well baby clinics.

Recommendations Emphasise inclusion of informal supports in all PHN interventions. Ensure that breastfeeding education for both mothers and health professionals receive similar education PHNs need to have an awareness of, and actively promote, all available breastfeeding support resources to mothers Breastfeeding support groups need to meet community needs Health care professionals need to have a clearer understanding of the multifaceted nature of breastfeeding support