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Published (Version of record)CC BY V4.0, Open Access
Published (Version of record)CC BY V4.0, Open
Journal article
Breastfeeding Aversion Response (BAR): A Descriptive Study
Journal of midwifery & women's health, Vol.68(4), pp.430-441
07/2023
PMID: 37066597
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Abstract
Introduction: For many women, breastfeeding their infant is an enjoyable experience. Some, however, have reported negative sensations such as
an overwhelming need to unlatch while breastfeeding. This phenomenon is known as breastfeeding aversion response (BAR). The incidence of
BAR is unknown and literature on this experience is limited. This study therefore aimed to expand the understanding of BAR using an online
survey targeting those who have experienced feelings of aversion while breastfeeding.
Methods: An online survey was distributed within Australia using purposive sampling to those who self-identified as experiencing BAR. This
survey contained 5 sections: (1) demographics and health-related characteristics, (2) breastfeeding difficulties and onset of BAR, (3) the experience
of BAR, (4) birth and breastfeeding experience, and (5) coping with BAR and support. Questions were included to test the generalizability of
previous qualitative findings on BAR.
Results: Participants (N = 210) predominantly were aged between 25 and 35 years (69.2%), were in a relationship (96.2%), and had one child
(80%). BAR was more commonly experienced when feeding the first-born child (44.8%), breastfeeding while pregnant (31%), or tandem feeding
(10%). The feelings of aversion were experienced by most respondents throughout the feed while the child was latched (76.7%). More than half
(52.4%) of participants reported that BAR had caused them to end breastfeeding sessions before their child was ready to stop feeding. Almost half
of the participants (48.6%) reported receiving no support from a health care provider for BAR.
Discussion: This study contributes new information about the experience of BAR, including when it commonly happens and who may be at
greater risk. More support is needed for women who want to breastfeed while experiencing BAR. New public health policies which promote
breastfeeding are needed to help women achieve satisfying breastfeeding experiences and meet their own breastfeeding goals.
J Midwifery Womens Health 2023;68:430–441 c 2023 The Authors. Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health published by Wiley Periodicals LLC
on behalf of American College of Nurse Midwives (ACNM).
Details
- Title
- Breastfeeding Aversion Response (BAR): A Descriptive Study
- Creators
- Melissa A. Morns - University of Technology SydneyAmie E. Steel - University of Technology SydneyErica McIntyre - University of Technology SydneyElaine Burns - Western Sydney University
- Publication Details
- Journal of midwifery & women's health, Vol.68(4), pp.430-441
- Publisher
- Wiley
- Number of pages
- 12
- Grant note
- Open access publishing facilitated by University of Technology Sydney, as part of the Wiley - University of Technology Sydney agreement via the Council of Australian University Librarians.
- Identifiers
- 991013369685702368
- Copyright
- © 2023 The Authors.
- Academic Unit
- National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine; Faculty of Health
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article