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The Rewards Outweigh the Efforts: Breastfeeding Outcomes for Mothers of Preterm Infants

Department of Maternal-Child Nursing at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Paula Meier, DNSc, RN, FAAN

Rush-Presbyterian St. Lukes Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois.

Beth Zimmermann, MS, RN

University of Chicago Hospitals.

Linnea Mead, MSN, RN

Department of Maternal-Child Nursing at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

This study describes the rewards and efforts of breastfeeding for mothers of preterm infants. Using a semi-structured interview guide, 20 mothers of preterm infants were interviewed in their homes approximately 1 month after infant discharge from a Level III NICU. Mothers described the following rewards of breastfeeding: knowing they were providing the healthiest nutrition for the infant, enhancing closeness between the mother and infant, perceiving infant contentment and tranquility during breastfeeding, providing convenience for the mother, and giving the mother a tangible claim on the infant. Most mothers identified some "efforts" associated with breastfeeding their preterm infants, but indicated that overall, breastfeeding was a rewarding experience. These data provide scientific support for the promotion and facilitation of breastfeeding for mothers of preterm infants, in that mothers perceive specific emotional advantages that they relate to the breastfeeding experience.

Key Words: breastfeeding • preterm infants • benefits • rewards • efforts

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