Reproductive System & Sexual Disorders: Current Research
Open Access
ISSN: 2161-038X
+44 1300 500008
ISSN: 2161-038X
+44 1300 500008
Pranee C Lundberg
Uppsala University, Sweden
Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Reprod Syst Sex Disord
By providing optimal nutrition and health benefits to baby and mother, breastfeeding is recognized as the most favorable feeding option for infants. The aim of this descriptive qualitative study was to describe the perceptions and practices of breastfeeding among Somalian women living in Sweden after migration. Twenty-five Somalian immigrant women participated voluntarily. Data were collected by using in-depth individual semi-structured interviews. The interviews took place in an adult school in Uppsala and in homes in Uppsala and its surroundings. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Qualitative content analysis was performed and the theory of planned behavior was used as the conceptual framework for construction of categories and subcategories. Four categories emerged: (i) breastfeeding beneficial but doesn�t always work, (ii) effects of cultural and traditional beliefs, (iii) professional support by health care providers and (vi) feeling stressed after childbirth in the new country. The women perceived breastfeeding as positive and important, but several barriers led them to combined use of formula and breastfeeding and to early introduction of supplementary food. Cultural, religious and traditional beliefs influenced their feeding practices. In conclusion, the women had not extensively changed their breastfeeding perceptions and practices due to the change of their environment; they mostly followed their cultural beliefs and traditions. Understanding of the women�s beliefs and practices is an important first step for effective, culturally informed health promotion. Antenatal care intervention programs for Somalis should involve the whole family and support breastfeeding by emphasizing its cultural and religious significance.