Milk and Meaning: A Lifeworld Hermeneutic Study of Breastfeeding and Maternal Identity

Abstract

Introduction

Numerous studies show the psychological and physiological benefits of breastfeeding for the mother-infant dyad [1]. Yet, few have delved into how breastfeeding informs and influences the identity of a mother using a qualitative approach.

Aim

This study, which comprises my Master's thesis, will use lifeworld hermeneutics to analyze semi-structured interviews with first-time mothers after breastfeeding for about three months. It aims to explore breastfeeding as an embodied practice that contributes to the formation and negotiation of maternal identity. Specifically, it is part of a growing body of work research matrescence, i.e. the process of becoming a mother by adding an emphatically qualitative perspective. 

Methodology

Snowball sampling will be used as the main subject gathering tool in combination with posts on social media with the aim of recruiting between 5 and 10 participants. The mothers will be asked to participate in two interviews. The first will be done in the month before giving birth to determine contextual factors and to establish a personal relationship. The second interview will take place around the three-month postpartum mark. The interviews will be recorded, transcribed and then analyzed using the lifeworld hermeneutic approach as outlined in Palmér et. al.[2]. This approach, inspired by McBride-Henry’s [3] own study of Australian mothers’ breastfeeding experience, is particularly suitable for so-called existential experiences, such as becoming a parent. Hermeneutic phenomenology combines the descriptiveness of lived experiences (phenomenology) and their interpretation (hermeneutics). It builds on the works of Husserl, Heidegger, and Gadamer, emphasizing an openness to the phenomenon, rigorous reflection, and problematizing on the part of the researcher, as well as a keen insight into their own preunderstandings.

Results

Given the lifeworld hermeneutic approach outlined by Palmer et al., this study does not seek to confirm preconceived outcomes but to deepen understanding of the lived experience of breastfeeding. It is anticipated that the analysis will uncover rich, situated meanings and existential dimensions of breastfeeding as narrated by participants. The findings are expected to contribute to a more embodied and contextual understanding of breastfeeding.

References

[1] R. Chowdhury et al., “Breastfeeding and maternal health outcomes: a systematic review and meta‐analysis,” Acta Paediatr., vol. 104, no. S467, pp. 96–113, Dec. 2015. doi: 10.1111/apa.13102.

[2] L. Palmér, M. Nyström, and K. Karlsson, “Lifeworld hermeneutics: An approach and a method for research on existential issues in caring science,” Scand. J. Caring Sci., vol. 38, no. 1, pp. 200–209, 2024. doi: 10.1111/scs.13201.

[3] K. McBride-Henry, “The Influence of the ‘They’: An Interpretation of Breastfeeding Culture in New Zealand,” Qual. Health Res., vol. 20, no. 6, pp. 768–777, 2010. doi: 10.1177/1049732310364220.