Mothering with an Intellectual Disability: A Phenomenological Exploration of Making Infant-Feeding Decisions.

BACKGROUND: Mothers with intellectual disability are less likely than mothers without intellectual disability to breastfeed their infants, but there is little literature that addresses infant-feeding decisions among this population. This study explores experiences of mothers with intellectual disability in making and carrying out infant-feeding decisions.

METHODS: Using a phenomenological approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with four mothers with intellectual disability.

RESULTS: Analysis focused on making and carrying out infant-feeding decisions. Three sub-themes of making infant-feeding decisions emerged: being familiar with benefits of breastfeeding, owning the initial decision and preparing for infant-feeding. Two sub-themes of carrying out infant-feeding decisions transpired: facing challenges and receiving support.

CONCLUSIONS: The prenatal period was a crucial time for the mothers regarding infant-feeding decisions. It is the time in which they felt the most decision-making power, yet opportunities to prepare for possible challenges were missed.