TitleA qualitative investigation of breast cancer survivors' experiences with breastfeeding.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2009
AuthorsGorman, JR, Usita, PM, Madlensky, L, Pierce, JP
JournalJ Cancer Surviv
Volume3
Issue3
Pagination181-91
Date Published2009 Sep
ISSN1932-2267
KeywordsAdult, Breast Feeding, Breast Neoplasms, Female, Humans, Interviews as Topic, Lactation, Mother-Child Relations, Surveys and Questionnaires, Survivors
Abstract
 

INTRODUCTION: This is an exploratory, qualitative investigation of breast cancer survivors' experiences with breastfeeding. Previous studies have focused on the physiology of lactation after surgery and treatment, but have not explored factors influencing breastfeeding decisions and behavior.

METHODS: We used purposeful sampling to identify 11 breast cancer survivors who had a child after their diagnosis and treatment. Participants were recruited from among those in the Women's Healthy Eating and Living (WHEL) study and a Young Survival Coalition (YSC) affiliate. We conducted semi-structured, open-ended telephone interviews lasting 45-75 min. We used social cognitive theory (SCT) to structure questions regarding influences on breastfeeding behavior. We transcribed interviews and used cross-case, inductive analysis to identify themes.

RESULTS: Ten of 11 participants initiated breastfeeding. The following main themes emerged: 1) Cautiously hopeful, 2) Exhausting to rely on one breast, 3) Motivated despite challenges, 4) Support and lack of support, and 5) Encouraging to others.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSIONS: Study participants were highly motivated to breastfeed but faced considerable challenges. Participants described problems that are not unique to women with breast cancer, but experienced these to a much greater degree because they relied mostly or entirely on one lactating breast. This study revealed a need for improved access to information and support and greater sensitivity to the obstacles faced by breast cancer survivors.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: Results of this qualitative analysis indicate that interventions to support the efforts of breast cancer survivors who are interested in breastfeeding are warranted. Additional research would aid in the development of such interventions.

DOI10.1007/s11764-009-0089-y
Alternate JournalJ Cancer Surviv
PubMed ID19462249
PubMed Central IDPMC2714446
Grant ListM01 RR000079 / RR / NCRR NIH HHS / United States
M01-RR00827 / RR / NCRR NIH HHS / United States
CA 69375 / CA / NCI NIH HHS / United States
M01-RR00079 / RR / NCRR NIH HHS / United States
M01-RR00070 / RR / NCRR NIH HHS / United States
CA 72092 / CA / NCI NIH HHS / United States
M01 RR000070 / RR / NCRR NIH HHS / United States
M01 RR000827 / RR / NCRR NIH HHS / United States
P01 CA072092 / CA / NCI NIH HHS / United States
R01 CA069375 / CA / NCI NIH HHS / United States