Exclusive Breastfeeding Experiences of Thai Mothers in Metropolitan Bangkok

Chompoonut Topothai,1,2 Thitikorn Topothai,1,2 Rapeepong Suphanchaimat,1,3 Orratai Waleewong,1 Weerasak Putthasri,4 Walaiporn Patcharanarumol,1 Viroj Tangcharoensathien1 1International Health Policy Program, Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi, 11000, Thailand; 2Department of Health, Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi, 11000, Thailand; 3Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi, 11000, Thailand; 4National Health Commission Office, Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi, 11000, ThailandCorrespondence: Chompoonut Topothai, Tel +66 2590-2380, Email chompoonut@ihpp.thaigov.netIntroduction: In 2019, only 14% of mothers in Thailand performed six-month exclusive breastfeeding. This study sought to understand the pathways that mothers in Bangkok Metropolitan took to achieve successful six-month exclusive breastfeeding.Methods: A total of 50 mothers living in Bangkok with children aged 6– 12 months, who achieved and not achieved 6-month exclusive breastfeeding, were recruited for in-depth interviews during February to July 2020. Inductive thematic analysis of participants’ viewpoints was applied for data analysis and interpretation.Results: Four themes that contributed to six-month exclusive breastfeeding were i)  maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy;  ii)  support provided by family members;  iii)  engagement with and support from healthcare professionals; and iv)  employers’ support and workplace environments. Mothers with strong breastfeeding intentions and “perceived capability†to succeed at breastfeeding tended to prioritize breastfeeding and overcome and cope well with unforeseen breastfeeding challenges. Supportive family members, who were convinced of the benefits of breastfeeding, engaged in maternal decision-making, and provided optimal support, contributed to successful exclusive breastfeeding. Health professionals were key in supporting mothers throughout pregnancy until the postpartum period. Lactating-mother-friendly working conditions, flexible working ...