When online support groups prevail: the information experience of chest/breastfeeders who only express their milk

Abstract

Introduction. Exclusive pumpers only express their milk and do not feed directly from their breast/chest. Rates of exclusive pumping are increasing, yet information on it is scant. Consequently, exclusive pumpers turn to the internet and online support groups for information and support. This paper examines the information needs of exclusive pumpers, the sources they use, and how useful these sources are. Combined with open-ended responses, this paper provides an insight into exclusive pumpers’ information experiences and its impact on their overall lived experience. Method. A cross-sectional, self-report, mixed-methods survey was administered online to a convenience sample of current and/or former exclusive pumpers (N = 2, 005). Analysis. Survey questions pertaining to information experience were analysed quantitatively in SPSS. Inductive thematic analysis of qualitative data was performed in Atlas.ti. Results. Online sources, particularly online support groups, were the most popular and most useful sources of exclusive pumping information and also provided much-needed support. Having poor information experiences were associated with poorer physical and affective outcomes. Conclusions. To meet their information needs, exclusive pumpers turn to online support groups and peer-provided information. Healthcare professionals, especially lactation consultants, need to provide improved exclusive pumping information.