The Joys and Frustrations of Breastfeeding and Rooming-In Among Mothers With Opioid Use Disorder: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To investigate perspectives of mothers with opioid use disorder regarding breastfeeding and rooming-in during the birth hospitalization and identify facilitators and barriers. METHODS: We conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with 25 mothers with opioid use disorder 1–12 weeks after delivery. Grounded theory analysis was used until thematic saturation was reached. Findings were triangulated, with experts in the field and a subset of informants themselves, to ensure data reliability. RESULTS: Among 25 infant-mother dyads, 36% of infants required pharmacologic treatment, 72% of mothers initiated breastfeeding, and 40% continued until discharge. We identified the following themes: (1) information drives maternal feeding choice; (2) the hospital environment is both a source of support and tension for mothers exerting autonomy in the care of their infants; (3) opioid withdrawal symptoms negatively impact breastfeeding; (4) internal and external stigma negatively impact mothers’ self-efficacy; (5) mothers’ histories of abuse and trauma affect their feeding choice and bonding; (6) mothers’ recovery makes caring for their infants emotionally and logistically challenging; and (7) having an infant is a source of resilience and provides a sense of purpose for mothers on their path of recovery. CONCLUSIONS: Future interventions aimed at increasing breastfeeding and rooming-in during the birth hospitalization should focus on education regarding the benefits of breastfeeding and rooming-in, supporting mothers’ autonomy in caring for their infants, minimizing stigma, and maximizing resilience.