TANDEM BREASTFEEDING: A DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSIS OF SUBJECTIVE EXPERIENCE OF WOMEN
Abstract
Summary. The aim of the study was to reveal the subjective experiences of women breastfeeding in tandem. Research methods. An exploratory, a qualitative research design was chosen in order to obtain rich, in-depth information needed to understand and interpret the tandem breastfeeding experiences of mothers. The qualitative study on the breastfeeding experience of mothers is based on 11th qualitative semi-structured interviews. The semi-structured interviews were conducted (in person), transcribed and thematically analysed. Results. The results of the study suggest that the decision to breastfeed in tandem is usually made by women as a natural part of motherhood and is often determined by unsuccessful attempts to wean an older child. The most relevant information about tandem breastfeeding participants found in the target groups of social networks on the Internet or breastfeeding consultants. However, the information received from doctors in general and gynaecologists, in particular, encouraging mothers not to choose tandem breastfeeding is perceived as longstanding and incompetent. The experience of women revealed that tandem breastfeeding would be significantly improved with the help of relatives in the household. The aversion to breastfeeding and the common myths and stereotypes concerned the tandem breastfeeding were identified as the most negative experiences. The main advantage of tandem breastfeeding identified by the study participants was the strong emotional bond between mother and children, as well as between the children themselves.