Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to explore working mothers' experiences in exclusive breastfeeding. A phenomenological study guided by Husserl was applied. Participants were 13 working mothers who success in exclusive breastfeeding for at least four months and had the experience within 2 years. Data were collected by in-depth interview. The interviews were tape-recorded and transcribed verbatim. The content analysis method followed Colaizi's guidelines was applied for data analysis. Findings revealed that working mothers' experiences in exclusive breastfeeding consisted of 3 themes including 1) Meaning of exclusive breastfeeding as symbol of perfect family, as the "best thing" for baby, and and the way to fulfill mother's role. Exclusive breastfeeding also created the senses of "full of pride", pleasure, content, "own mother's benevolence", self-worth, and bonding. 2) Focal reasons in deciding to decision for exclusive breastfeeding were: a) mothers' willing and expectation to breastfeed, b) pleasant experiences and illustration of breastfeeding, c) spiritual, social, economic, and physical benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, and d) support for breastfeeding and 3) Exclusive breastfeeding management consisted of planning and preparation prior to the end of maternity leave and at the time of going back to work. Furthermore, the solutions to manage problem and barrier of exclusive breastfeeding were revealed. This study provided better understanding about working mothers' experiences in exclusive breastfeeding. Finding can be used for developing holistic nursing interventions that can successfully, effectively meet the needs of working mothers