Breastfeeding practices of healthcare providers at Capricorn District Level 1 hospitals, Limpopo Province

Abstract

The aim of the study was to assess breastfeeding practices of healthcare providers at level one hospitals in Capricorn District of Limpopo province. Methods: Five level one district hospitals within the Capricorn district of Limpopo province were the study sites. Two focus groups with members ranging from three to nine members were conducted. Two managers per hospital were interviewed. In both focus groups and in-depth interviews an audio tape recorder was used. This was transcribed and from the first transcription categories were developed. These formed a basis for data analysis, although the categories had undergone transformation as the analysis unfolded. Results: The study found that there are three practices that are adopted with regard to breastfeeding practices. Most employees choose to breastfeed as the first choice in baby feeding. Majority succeeded in breastfeeding their babies for sometime. There are those who feed their babies’ breast milk as the only source of milk during infancy. Others practice mixed feeding, where the baby is given breast milk and supplemented by formula. However, others fed their babies formula only. They indicate that this was not the initial choice in baby feeding. Conclusion: Healthcare providers have the same needs as the rest of the population with regard to breastfeeding and work. Their challenges are more work-related; which affect their decision whether to breastfeed or not to.