Breastfeeding Mothers’ Informational Support Needs: A Qualitative Study in Iran

Background: Breastfeeding is a health promotion priority due to its implications for both maternal and infant health in the short and long term. However, breastfeeding rates have been steadily declining globally. Therefore, protecting, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding are recognized as public health priorities. Accordingly, this study aimed to explore the informational support needs of breastfeeding mothers. Methods: This qualitative study was performed from March 2018 to April 2021 in five health centers and four hospitals affiliated with Mashhad University of Medical Sciences in Iran. Data were collected through individual semi-structured in-depth interviews with 25 breastfeeding mothers, 2 family members, and 9 healthcare providers. Data were analyzed using directed content analysis based on the approach proposed by Elo and Kyngas via MAXQDA 2010 software. Results: Data analysis led to the identification of informational and educational services as the primary category with four subcategories including the need for instruction on proper breastfeeding behavior, the need for breastfeeding information, the need for information on maternal-related issues, and the need for information on infant-related issues. Conclusion: Breastfeeding mothers require informational support to sustain breastfeeding. Significant others, such as healthcare providers, family members, and peers, play an important role in fulfilling breastfeeding mothers’ informational support needs.