Abstract
Background: This qualitative study was undertaken as a follow-up of the results of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted in Kuala Lumpur in 2010. Objective: The main objective of this study was to explore the Lactation Counselors’ perspectives regarding counselor-initiated telephone-based lactation counseling service to mothers in Kuala Lumpur. Methods: In-depthinterviews were held with the lactation counselors. The analytical framework was conceptualized using the Grounded Theory method. Results: The greatest determinant which affected telephone-based lactation counseling was the intention of counselors, followed by external factors such as time constraints, mothers’ behaviors and their control in decision making, family influence and cultural differences. Strong motivation is required for the counselors to perform telephone lactation counseling. Conclusion: The Lactation Counselors in general have appreciated the experiences and benefits gained from the service. However, external factors pose major impact towards the conduct and effectiveness of counseling.
Highlights
In Malaysia, the exclusive breastfeeding rate in Malaysia remains low despite the implementation of Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) policy since 1993
In a national survey conducted in the year 2006, the overall prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding in Malaysia below 4 months was 19.3% (15.5%, 23.9%), while the overall prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding below 6 months was 14.5% (11.7%, 17.9%) [1,2]
The results are a summary of the themes identified from the analysis process with selected quotes included for illustration purposes, representing the lactation counselors (LCs) perspective on the telephone lactation counseling based on their experiences providing the service
Summary
In Malaysia, the exclusive breastfeeding rate in Malaysia remains low despite the implementation of Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) policy since 1993. The research investigating the effects of telephone counseling for breastfeeding tends to incorporate the intervention as an adjunct with other forms of support [18,19,20,21], except for one study [22] This qualitative study was undertaken as a follow-up of the results of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted in Kuala Lumpur from April 2010 – February 2011 [23]. The main objective of this qualitative study was to explore the LCs’ perspectives regarding counselor-initiated telephone lactation counseling service to mothers in Kuala Lumpur. This qualitative study was undertaken as a follow-up of the results of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted in Kuala Lumpur in 2010
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