Expression of Breastmilk: Qualitative Exploration on Experience of Working Women in Malaysia

Abstract

Introduction: Women worldwide have been practising milk expression for various reasons through different methods and tools. Nevertheless, references on milk expression among working Malaysian women are limited. Materials and methods: The present study explored working Malaysian women’s views and experiences on breastmilk expression practices using a feminist phenomenological approach. This study conducted in-depth interviews with 19 working mothers of infants between three and 12 months old who were practising milk expression. Purposive and snowball sampling were employed during data collection. The information obtained was analysed systematically to establish themes and subthemes. Results: The participants employed hand, breast pumps, and suction cups to express their milk. The principal themes that emerged from the data obtained were reasons for practising milk expression, factors influencing milk expression method selection, and milk expression experiences. Conclusion: The reasons for breastmilk expression demonstrated the participants’ determination to continue providing breastmilk despite facing various challenges. The conditions influencing the milk expression method selected and the participants’ experiences in expressing breastmilk could assist practitioners in providing guidelines for breastfeeding mothers when choosing a milk expression approach.