Breastfeeding Experiences of African-Black Immigrant Women in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

Breastfeeding confers numerous benefits to both the mother and child. Despite these benefits, global breastfeeding rates remain low compared to the World Health Assembly targets. Migrating to another country adds another dimension, playing a significant role in shaping breastfeeding practices. This study examined African-Black Immigrant women’s breastfeeding experiences pre- and post-migration to highlight important facilitators and barriers. This qualitative study explored the lived experience of African-Black Immigrant women using an Interpretative Phenomenological Approach. From August to October 2024, five participants were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling. Interviews were semi-structured, in English, audio-recorded, and transcribed verbatim, then analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Data management was done with Microsoft Word and Excel. To ensure rigour, member checking, peer debriefing, and reflexive journaling were applied. Ethics was granted by the University of Saskatchewan’s Behavioural Research Ethics Board (Beh-REB) (ID 4995). Five main themes emerged: (1) Positive breastfeeding experiences & maternal experiences, (2) family and community support, (3) cultural practices and societal acceptance, (4) healthcare support & access to resources and (5) barriers and challenges to breastfeeding. The first 3 themes are related to the breastfeeding experiences, while themes 4 and 5 are related to the facilitators and challenges. Migration created barriers such as cultural shifts, healthcare navigation, language difficulties, and social isolation. Despite this, resilience, traditional knowledge and community support helped women continue breastfeeding. These findings highlight the importance of culturally inclusive breastfeeding support services that enable African-Black Immigrant women to address breastfeeding challenges in Canada. This information can be used to craft healthcare policies and interventions aimed at enhancing both maternal and child health outcomes.