LIVED EXPERIENCES OF LACTATION NURSES IN PROVIDING SUPPORT TO MOTHERS OF INFANTS ADMITTED TO THE NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT (NICU)

Abstract. This qualitative study explores the lived experiences of lactation nurses in providing support to mothers of infants admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Lactation support is a critical component of neonatal care, as breastfeeding not only strengthens infant survival and development but also promotes maternal confidence and bonding. Despite the recognized importance of lactation services, the unique perspectives of nurses providing this specialized care remain underexplored, particularly in the Philippine context. Using a phenomenological approach, the study engaged eight NICU lactation nurses from a tertiary hospital through in-depth interviews. Colaizzi’s method was employed to analyze the narratives and extract themes. Findings revealed three overarching dimensions: (1) professional fulfillment amidst challenges, where nurses expressed both pride in fostering breastfeeding success and frustration over systemic constraints; (2) navigating barriers, including limited resources, time pressures, and cultural misconceptions about breastfeeding; and (3) compassionate presence, wherein emotional support, reassurance, and advocacy for mothers were described as equally vital to technical guidance. These themes underscore the dual technical and emotional labor inherent in the lactation nurse’s role. The study highlights that while lactation nurses significantly contribute to maternal and infant well-being, their effectiveness is shaped by institutional policies, workload management, and cultural contexts. Descriptive statistics and thematic coding ensured analytic rigor, while reflexivity was maintained to acknowledge the subjectivity inherent in lived experience research. The findings contribute to the limited body of local literature on NICU lactation support and emphasize the need for structured policies, continuous training, and supportive hospital systems to empower lactation nurses. Ultimately, this research affirms that lactation care is both a clinical and relational practice that must be prioritized within neonatal health services.