Recommendations for breastfeeding promotion based on adolescent mothers’ perceptions: an exploratory qualitative study

Background: Breastfeeding improves both infant and maternal health. Studies suggest that adolescent mothers do appreciate the benefits of breastfeeding. However, they feel embarrassed about breastfeeding and prefer to avoid the potential associated physical and mental pain that can accompany feeding their baby. Methods: : This study utilized a qualitative research approach with one-to-one interviews from a purposive sample of 14 adolescent mothers. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim before content analysis was done using ATLAS.ti. Results: : The results comprised of three main themes: participants described the intricacies of breastfeeding, shared challenges experienced during breastfeeding, and suggested support for adolescent mothers. Conclusion: The findings revealed that adolescent mothers need sufficient age-appropriate education and support to assist them to breastfeed successfully. Breastfeeding promotion targeting maternal mothers, grandmothers and fathers at primary health care (PHC) facilities would also be beneficial in improving their knowledge about recommended infant feeding practices and consequently aid in providing appropriate support and advice to adolescent mothers.