Open AccessRealigning Expectations With Reality: A Case Study on Maternal Mental Health During a Difficult Breastfeeding Journey
Author(s) -
Mason Elder,
Lorann Murphy,
Stacy Notestine,
Arthur L. Weber
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
journal of human lactation
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.618
H-Index - 60
eISSN - 1552-5732
pISSN - 0890-3344
DOI - 10.1177/08903344211031142
Subject(s) - breastfeeding , embarrassment , mental health , medicine , anxiety , psychology , nursing , breast feeding , psychiatry , pediatrics , social psychology
Many mothers have the goal to breastfeed. However, more than 50% will have breastfeeding difficulty by the 3rd day of life. Mothers who are unable to meet their breastfeeding goals are at higher risk for anxiety, depression, embarrassment, and guilt. Those who stop breastfeeding need support and help resolving these feelings. This case study aims to describe one woman's difficulty with mental health surrounding breastfeeding, her decision to bottle feed, and her successful transition back to direct breastfeeding.