Analysis of Attitudes Toward Breastfeeding and Spiritual Life During Pregnancy in Türkiye: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Abstract It is crucial for nurses to understand the meaning of spirituality, which can become more pronounced during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding, and to take a supportive approach to breastfeeding attitudes during pregnancy. This study aimed to explore pregnant women’s attitudes and spiritual experiences in Türkiye regarding breastfeeding. A qualitative inductive content analysis design was employed. Seventeen pregnant women (36–39-week gestation) were admitted to a maternity hospital in Zonguldak, Türkiye. They were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured, face-to-face, in-depth interviews and analyzed using an inductive content analysis approach. The mean age of the participants was 27.41 years, and ten participants were primiparous. Multiparous participants had previously breastfed for a mean duration of 19.1 months. Three main themes emerged: “Breastfeeding and life,” “Spiritual life and breastfeeding,” and “Cultural synthesis.” Considering the impact of spirituality on breastfeeding during pregnancy, these findings may help nurses recognize pregnant women’s spiritual needs and value the protective role of spirituality. Understanding these dimensions could improve the quality of support provided by healthcare professionals and potentially enhance breastfeeding outcomes.</jats:p