Perceived Family Support among Successful Mothers in Exclusive Breastfeeding, a Qualitative Study

Background: Breastfeeding is a complex phenomenon and its duration is influenced by several factors. Since proper family support may affect the length and quantity of exclusive breastfeeding, this study aimed to explain the supportive role of families based on experience of successful mothers in exclusive breastfeeding. Methods: This qualitative study was done in 2015with conventional content analysis approach. Overall, 16 successful mothers in exclusive breastfeeding were chosen by purposeful sampling from healthcare centers affiliated to Golestan and Mazandaran Universities of Medical Sciences. Data were collected by in-depth semi-structured interview and data analysis was done using comparative analysis. Lincoln and Guba criterion was used to evaluate accuracy and robustness of data. Results: The experiences and perception of successful mothers in exclusive breastfeeding were categorized intofour classes of emotional support from grandmothers, effective training role of grandmothers, cooperation of husband‟s family, and participation of breastfeeding mother‟s family. Conclusion: Considering the supportive role of family members in various emotional and informational aspects of exclusive breastfeeding by mothers, it is recommended to seriously consider the role and position of this group and implement strategies using their potential in policymaking for breastfeeding.