Influence of grandmothers on breastfeeding practices in a rural community in Papua New Guinea: A critical discourse analysis of first-time mothers' perspectives.

BACKGROUND: Almost all babies are breastfed in Papua New Guinea (PNG); yet appropriate breastfeeding practices are not always followed. AIM: To explore the perspectives of first-time mothers in rural PNG on how the language and discourse of grandmothers about infant feeding influence their breastfeeding practices. METHODS: A critical discourse analysis (CDA) approach was used to theoretically frame the analysis of twenty first-time mothers' narratives. FINDINGS: Analysis revealed three themes: (i) prescribed knowledge repository, (ii) social control and dominance, and (iii) disapproval and role conflict, which provides an understanding of grandmothers' differing views and positions on infant feeding practices and their influence on breastfeeding. CONCLUSION: This study shows that grandmothers remain influential in infant feeding practices in rural PNG. There appears to be a societal expectation that empowers grandmothers in the maternal decision-making processes regarding breastfeeding practice. Grandmothers' influence includes the early introduction of complementary foods to infants less than six months old. Interventions aimed at promoting, protecting, and supporting breastfeeding need to include grandmothers.

A qualitative descriptive inquiry into factors influencing early weaning and breastfeeding duration among first-time mothers in Papua New Guinea's rural eastern highlands.

BACKGROUND: Exclusive breastfeeding confers multiple maternal and child health benefits. Although breastfeeding initiation following birth is common in Papua New Guinea, many first-time mothers may not achieve optimal breastfeeding duration. AIM: This study aims to explore and describe factors influencing early weaning and breastfeeding duration among first-time mothers in Papua New Guinea's rural eastern highlands. METHODS: A qualitative descriptive approach was adopted in this study. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews with 20 first-time mothers. The interviews transcripts were then thematically analysed. RESULTS: Three key themes identified were: source of breastfeeding information and support; social networks and breastfeeding communication; and balancing perceived gender and maternal roles. The study further identified a lack of fathers' involvement in supporting breastfeeding. CONCLUSION: Social and relational networks, and maternal factors need to be considered to better understand breastfeeding practices. Efforts to achieve optimal breastfeeding outcomes entail targeted and culturally appropriate programs, including fathers' involvement as they play important roles in breastfeeding and infant feeding practices.