Proposed Topic (Most preferred): :
Research and Innovations (new projects / technology / innovations / service models)
Proposed Topic (Second preferred): :
Clinical Safety and Quality Service I (Projects aiming to improve efficiency and effectiveness of care delivery to meet international standards)
Authors (including presenting author) :
Leung YN (1), Chau PH (2), Lam CCO (3), Leung WC (1), Chan LLS (1), Chung CSF (1), Lau WL (1) and Lok KYW (2)
Affiliation :
(1) Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Kwong Wah Hospital (2) School of Nursing, The University of Hong Kong (3) Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital
Introduction :
The prevalence of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is increasing in Hong Kong, posing health risks for both mothers and infants. GDM often hinders exclusive breastfeeding, leading to early supplementation and premature weaning. Studies have demonstrated a correlation between breastfeeding intensity, dose, response to future diabetes risk. Antenatal milk expression (AME) has emerged as a safe and effective intervention for breastfeeding support. However, limited evidence exists on the acceptability and experiences of AME, especially in the context of Hong Kong.
Objectives :
This study explores women’s perception and experiences of behavioural-based breastfeeding intervention incorporating antenatal milk expression in the context of gestational diabetes.
Methodology :
Participants were recruited from two regional maternity hospitals within the Kowloon Centre Cluster in Hong Kong. They are the subset of intervention groups in the randomized controlled trial were selected to be interviewed. A purposive criterion sampling approach was employed, inviting women who met the inclusion criteria to participate in the semi-structured interviews. The structured interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. This study utilized a qualitative, phenomenological approach. Thematic analysis was adopted to analyse the data, which involved transcribing the interviews verbatim.
Result & Outcome :
Data collection started between January 2022 and December 2023. 34 participants were approached and 19 structured interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. Four key themes emerged from the participants' experiences and perspectives on antenatal milk expression for breastfeeding: 1) support and confidence building, 2) addressing challenges and strategies, 3) facilitation and breastfeeding readiness, and 4) health beliefs and advocacy. These themes provide valuable insights for healthcare professionals in supporting pregnant women through the antenatal milk expression process. The findings underscore the significance of fostering a supportive environment, providing practical strategies, and promoting positive health beliefs. The results indicate that participants exhibited positive attitudes toward antenatal milk expression as a breastfeeding intervention. The high compliance with the recommended practice suggests its acceptability among the study.
Conclusions:
The findings highlights the benefits of this intervention for mothers and infants who face medical challenges and its role in preparing for successful breastfeeding. Future research should focus on examining the effectiveness of antenatal milk expression in promoting exclusive breastfeeding. This will inform the development and implementation of this practice.
