Maternal Emotions and Experiences of Mothers Who Had Breastfeeding Problems: A Qualitative Study

Background and Purpose: Many women are ceasing to breastfeed in the early period due to the breastfeeding problems and difficulties they perceive. Consequently, the approach and support of health professionals to mothers in the postpartum period is very important. The objective of the study is to determine the emotions and experiences of mothers who had breastfeeding problems by using Watson's Theory of Human Caring. Methods: The research is a descriptive and qualitative type of study. The data were collected from 20 women with the semi-structured interview method based on Watson's Theory. The data were analyzed according to the Caritas Processes of Watson's Theory. Results: It was determined that the health professionals did not show enough assistance, support and interest to the mothers who had breastfeeding problems and that the mothers expected respect, empathy, sincerity, understanding, trust, and assistance during this period. Implication for Practice: The use of the interview methods based on Watson's Theory of Human Caring in the determination of the difficulties and emotions experienced by the women who had breastfeeding problems will be a guide for the health professionals. It is thought that the approaches based on Watson's Caritas Processes that would be made to women who had breastfeeding problems would be effective for understanding their experience and emotions.