This study explored the Influences upon women's experiences of breastfeeding within postnatal ward settings. A critical ethnographic approach was adopted in two maternity units in the North of England, with 61 postnatal women and 39 midwives participating. Participant observations of 97 encounters between midwives and mothers, 106 focused interviews with mothers and 37 guided conversations with midwives were conducted. Basic, organising and global themes were constructed utilising thematic networXs analysis. The metaphor of the production line, with its notions of demand and efficient supply against linear time, illustrated the experiences of breastfeeding women. They conceptualised breastfeeding as a 'productive' project yet expressed deep mistrust in the efficacy of their bodies. Their emphasis centred on breast milk as nutrition rather than relationalily and breastfeeding. Women referred to the demanding and unpredictable ways in which their baby breached their temporal and spatial boundaries. They sought strategies to cope with the uncertainty of this embodied experience. Women felt 'subjected' to ideologically pervasive notions that 'breast Is best' and authoritative versions of how 'best to breastfeed'. An atmosphere of surveillance was experienced In relation to the institutional regulation of breastfeeding and through conducting a private and culturally ambiguous activity in a public domain. Women felt dissonant when a 'natural' process was experienced as complicated and challenging. The midwives were also 'productive' yet 'subjected', their work being time pressured, unpredictable and fragmented. In 'supplying' a service under 'demanding' conditions midwives engaged in institutionally orientated rituals and routines, approaching women in disconnected and directive ways. Consequently, breastfeedlng women's individual needs for support were rarely met. Recommendations are made for: a reconsideration of the way In which women's bodies are understood and experienced; a re-conceptuallsation of women's time; reconflguratlon of knowledge about breastfeedlng; re-visioning of relationships; and relocation of the place within which women commence breastfeeding.

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Numerous studies have shown the benefits of breastfeeding, however, the incidence and duration of breastfeeding in the UK is low and static, and breastfeeding rates in Liverpool in the North West of the UK are even lower. Breastfeeding is frequently promoted as being free yet little research has been carried out to substantiate this claim. Further, little is known about breastfeeding practices in Liverpool. Four inter-related studies were conducted to investigate the cost of infant feeding and associated practices. Initially a database was compiled of infant feeding products, this revealed a vast number of products marketed to both breast and formula feeding mothers. Semi-structured interviews were then conducted to identify all the items purchased for feeding infants up to the age of four months. The results of these interviews revealed that breastfeeding was more expensive than formula feeding but high and low cost models suggest that substantial savings could be made. Many mothers purchased items and subsequently did not use or need them. The suggestion that infant feeding and particularly breastfeeding has become unnecessarily commercialised was supported by content analysis of a wide range of UK pregnancy and baby magazines. These were consistent with parenthood being a consumer experience to be 'perfected', in addition to emphasising the need for 'expert' advice. Breastfeeding messages were undermined by formula company advertisements and breastfeeding was frequently presented as being painful and problematic. With these conflicting messages, it may not be surprising that many women initiated breastfeeding but ceased within three months. Those who did initiate breastfeeding frequently gave 'baby-centred' reasons such as breast is best whilst those who initiated formula feeding gave 'mother-centred' reasons such as others could help with feeding. Many women who ceased breastfeeding would have liked to have continued, and cited reasons that could have been overcome with increased support and encouragement. The importance of being supported was further highlighted by the women who attended the infant feeding clinic. This study has demonstrated that the materials needed for breastfeeding are clearly identified and health professionals are trained to support parents. In addition, the media needs to be persuaded to help create and support a breastfeeding culture, with the risks of formula feeding clearly communicated.

Thesis (MPH) --University of Limpopo, 2011 / The aim of the study was to assess breastfeeding practices of healthcare providers at level one hospitals in Capricorn District of Limpopo province. Methods: Five level one district hospitals within the Capricorn district of Limpopo province were the study sites. Two focus groups with members ranging from three to nine members were conducted. Two managers per hospital were interviewed. In both focus groups and in-depth interviews an audio tape recorder was used. This was transcribed and from the first transcription categories were developed. These formed a basis for data analysis, although the categories had undergone transformation as the analysis unfolded. Results: The study found that there are three practices that are adopted with regard to breastfeeding practices. Most employees choose to breastfeed as the first choice in baby feeding. Majority succeeded in breastfeeding their babies for sometime. There are those who feed their babies’ breast milk as the only source of milk during infancy. Others practice mixed feeding, where the baby is given breast milk and supplemented by formula. However, others fed their babies formula only. They indicate that this was not the initial choice in baby feeding. Conclusion: Healthcare providers have the same needs as the rest of the population with regard to breastfeeding and work. Their challenges are more work-related; which affect their decision whether to breastfeed or not to.