The Meaning and Significance of Breastfeeding for Biological Mothers of Children with Cleft Lip and/or Palate

Introduction: Given the functional, emotional, and symbolic challenges imposed by cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) on exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), mothers often experience early breastfeeding cessation with impacts on maternal identity and the mother–infant bond. This study aimed to explore the meanings, feelings, and experiences of mothers of children with CL/P regarding breastfeeding in the face of these adversities. Methods: This qualitative study applied the Clinical-Qualitative Method as proposed by Turato. Six in-depth semistructured interviews were conducted with biological mothers of children with CL/P, recruited from a specialized craniofacial reference center in Brazil. Data were analyzed using a qualitative content analysis approach, grounded in psychodynamic concepts from the Medical Psychology theoretical framework. Results: Based on the analysis of the collected material, three analytical categories were identified and constructed: (1) “ Existential conflict regarding the inability to fulfill the ideal maternal role ”; (2) “ Duality between the need and the fear of caregiving ”; and (3) “ The anguish experienced between tangible and intangible support during breastfeeding. ” Conclusions: Although the inability to EBF in children with CL/P generates emotional distress, motherhood is reimagined through adaptive forms of care and bonding, highlighting gaps in institutional support and the need for more humanized, emotionally sensitive health practices.