Experiences of Breastfeeding Complications in Rural and Regional Victoria: Perspectives From Mothers and Clinicians

OBJECTIVE: To explore the experiences of breastfeeding complications in women and the perspectives of the clinicians who care for them in rural and regional areas. DESIGN: This qualitative study recruited and interviewed mothers with recent breastfeeding experience, and clinicians regularly managing breastfeeding complications. The interviews explored experiences about breastfeeding including seeking healthcare support for breastfeeding (mothers) and experiences in caring for women with breastfeeding complications (clinicians). Audio recordings were transcribed, and a thematic analysis was undertaken. SETTING: This study took place in rural and regional Victoria (Modified Monash Model [MMM] classified 3-6 areas), Australia, in 2022. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 20 mothers (MMM3-5 n = 12; MMM4-6 n = 8) and 18 clinicians including General Practitioners (n = 4), Maternal Child Health Nurses (n = 9), Lactation Consultants (n = 5) and Allied Health Practitioners (n = 2) participated. RESULTS: Mothers and clinicians reported a range of common breastfeeding complications, with mothers frequently experiencing multiple concurrent issues. Three themes were identified including expectations of breastfeeding, information and health literacy surrounding breastfeeding and barriers to accessing breastfeeding support services. Unrealistic expectations of breastfeeding, lack of clinician education about breastfeeding, the availability and knowledge related to local breastfeeding support services and geographic access were all elements that impacted the breastfeeding journey. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the urgent need to improve healthcare for breastfeeding women in rural and regional areas. Broader policy issues must be addressed and resourced to ensure breastfeeding guidelines are universally accessible and equitable. This includes embedding evidence-based management within healthcare guidelines, effective monitoring to sustain progress towards breastfeeding targets, and further research to improve outcomes for rural and regional mothers and clinicians. Additionally, better promotion of existing breastfeeding support services is needed so mothers know when and how to access them.