Determination of breast milk insufficiency perceptions of tandem breastfeeding mothers; A case-control study

Abstract

Background: Continuation of breastfeeding in the postpartum period during a new pregnancy is affected by various factors, with the most important being the perception of mothers' inadequacy regarding their milk (also called perception of breast milk insufficiency). Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the perception of breast milk insufficiency of tandem breastfeeding mothers compared to non-tandem breastfeeding mothers. Methods: This case-control study was conducted online with a total of 259 mother participants. A Mother Descriptive Characteristics Form, Tandem Breastfeeding Form and Perception of Insufficient Milk Questionnaire were used for data collection. Results: The mean scores of case and control group mothers on the insufficient milk perception scale were 28.12 ± 6.3 and 39.1 ± 10.2, respectively. The rate of mothers in the case group who experienced bleeding when continuing to breastfeed during pregnancy was 11.3%, those who experienced uterine contraction was 19.1%, and those who reported a threatened premature birth was 8.4%. Conclusions: Breastfeeding has many benefits for both mother and baby. While even a mother under normal conditions has a perception of milk deficiency, this situation becomes even more intense in mothers who continue breastfeeding while pregnant. It is extremely important for healthcare professionals to be knowledgeable and aware of this issue in order to accurately guide mothers who choose to tandem breastfeed. © 2022 Neonatal Nurses Association