1
|
Boothby CA, Santana MJ, Norris CM, Campbell TS, Rabi DM. Sexual Activity After Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Qualitative Approach to Patient and Partner Experiences. J Cardiovasc Nurs 2021; 36:E71-E79. [PMID: 33852497 PMCID: PMC8366597 DOI: 10.1097/jcn.0000000000000815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about how best to support both patients and their partners in the reengagement of sexual activity (SA) after acute coronary syndrome (ACS), with sparse direct data from the partner on their needs and concerns in the area of SA support. OBJECTIVES We undertook a qualitative study to address this gap in the literature through 3 objectives from a patient and partner perspective: (1) to characterize the experience of reengaging in SA post ACS, (2) to identify needs and priorities in the area of SA support post ACS, and (3) to determine whether cardiac rehabilitation (CR) could be an acceptable point of intervention for SA support. METHODS Semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted with 6 male patients who were post ACS and their partners (age range, 47-81 years). Patients were criterion sampled from the Alberta Provincial Project for Outcome Assessment in Coronary Heart Disease database. Inductive thematic data analysis was conducted. RESULTS Four themes were identified: "importance," "support received," "on their own," and "wanting support." Couples reaffirmed the importance of SA pre and post ACS, reported SA support as currently insufficient but articulated ways it could be improved, and reported CR as a current source of SA support but thought there could be room for improvement on the content and delivery of such information. CONCLUSIONS This study illustrates the potential value of promoting SA support for both patients who are post ACS and their partners and reports that SA support provided at CR would be viewed as important, needed, and acceptable.
Collapse
|
2
|
Alyasin N, Teate A, Strickland K. The experience of women following first acute coronary syndrome: An integrative literature review. J Adv Nurs 2021; 77:2228-2247. [PMID: 33393122 DOI: 10.1111/jan.14677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM There is lack of evidence and research understanding among women's lived experiences following first acute coronary syndrome, thus their recovery process remains poorly understood. To date research has largely focused on men's experience of acute coronary syndrome while this area of health care and recovery has considerable impact on women's health and quality of life. Our aim was to review the literature exploring lived experience of women following first acute coronary syndrome. DESIGN Integrative review of the literature. DATA SOURCE We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and Scopus from 2008-2018 for articles published in English. REVIEW METHOD Of 1675 publications identified, 18 qualitative, quantitative, and mixed method studies met our inclusion criteria. Quality of included studies was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute quality assessment tools. Findings were integrated using thematic synthesis. RESULTS Experiencing acute coronary syndrome was reported to have significant impacts on women's lives. The most common issues reported were physical limitations, fear, and uncertainties about the future, sexual dissatisfaction, and social isolation. Women also reported to have higher short- and long-term mortality rate, stroke, recurrent, and hospital readmissions compared with men. CONCLUSION This review identified current knowledge and gaps about lived experience of women following first acute coronary syndrome. It is anticipated that the information gained from this literature review will support new research aimed at improving the care women receive following acute coronary syndrome and therefore enhance their recovery and quality of life. IMPACT This review contributes to the current body of knowledge by addressing women's physical, psychosocial, and sexual state following acute coronary syndrome. Improvement in women's quality of life after acute coronary syndrome necessitates further research which ultimately results in better management and treatment of women and their recovery following first acute coronary syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Najmeh Alyasin
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Alison Teate
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Karen Strickland
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Schoenau MN, Hansen M, Ulvestad S, Sommer MS, Pedersen JH, Missel M. The Lived Experiences, Perceptions, and Considerations of Patients After Operable Lung Cancer Concerning Nonparticipation in a Randomized Clinical Rehabilitation Trial. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2020; 30:760-771. [PMID: 31729930 DOI: 10.1177/1049732319886564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences, perceptions, and considerations of individuals who declined participation in a randomized clinical trial involving exercise rehabilitation after surgery for lung cancer. An interpretive phenomenological approach was applied comprising interviews with 15 individuals who did not wish to participate in the trial. The findings shed light on a discrepancy between their freedom to act and make decisions and the limitations of having to act in a certain way. The participants found themselves in a gray area between a healthy life and a good life, as influenced by societal norms and taking responsibility for one's own health and rehabilitation. When including patients in rehabilitation after lung cancer, having insight into the underlying narrative on values and the good life, priorities in daily life, social context and the norms embedded in people's self-understanding is crucial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mai Nanna Schoenau
- Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Roskilde University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Jesper Holst Pedersen
- University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Malene Missel
- Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
The Effect of Cardiac Rehabilitation Attendance on Sexual Activity Outcomes in Cardiovascular Disease Patients: A Systematic Review. Can J Cardiol 2018; 34:1590-1599. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2018.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
|
5
|
Smith R, Frazer K, Hall P, Hyde A, O'Connor L. 'Betwixt and between health and illness' - women's narratives following acute coronary syndrome. J Clin Nurs 2017; 26:3457-3470. [PMID: 28054410 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.13711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES This study investigated experiences of women with a primary diagnosis of ACS (NSTEMI and Unstable Angina) in the 6-8 week period following discharge from hospital. The aim was to report the experience of the mediating impact of a newly-diagnosed disease. BACKGROUND Cardiovascular disease is the main cause of mortality in women. Treatment modalities have improved health outcomes and survival rates, however, quality of life and ongoing morbidity after discharge is not clearly understood from a gender specific perspective. DESIGN A naturalistic case study design guided this study. METHODS Thirty women participated (n = 30); a within-case followed by a cross-case analysis provided meticulous knowledge of each case. Data collection included participant diaries and face to face interviews. Data were analysed using modified analytic induction which allowed the emergence of theoretical insights. The theoretical concepts, liminality and transitioning were used to inform the analysis. Within-methods triangulation captured the depth and breadth of the women's experiences. RESULTS The data provide an insight into women's experiences following ACS and highlight a need for support structures and services after discharge. Many women reported a period of disrupted normality following discharge from hospital. While a number of women had transitioned towards recovery, many remained in a liminal space 'betwixt and between' health and illness. Cardiac rehabilitation was reported as a positive experience for those who were attending. CONCLUSIONS The findings provide a platform for a wider discourse on the needs of women with ACS in the immediate period after discharge from hospital. Women may benefit from gender-specific, appropriately timed, and targeted interventions to facilitate recovery and adaptation to living with CHD. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE It is essential that secondary prevention services are modelled and tailored to meet the needs of women and evaluated appropriately to ensure positive outcomes. Nursing could have a key role to play in managing and providing this support.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rita Smith
- UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Kate Frazer
- UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Abbey Hyde
- UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Laserina O'Connor
- UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ziebland S, Locock L, Fitzpatrick R, Stokes T, Robert G, O’Flynn N, Bennert K, Ryan S, Thomas V, Martin A. Informing the development of NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) quality standards through secondary analysis of qualitative narrative interviews on patients’ experiences. HEALTH SERVICES AND DELIVERY RESEARCH 2014. [DOI: 10.3310/hsdr02450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundWe set out to explore if, and how, an archive of qualitative, narrative interviews covering over 60 health issues could be used to inform the development of National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) quality standards. We also sought to identify which aspects of health care are important to people facing different health conditions and to test a set of ‘core components’ in focus groups with people who tend to be less well represented in interview research studies.Objectives(1) To conduct qualitative secondary analysis (of collections of narrative interviews) to identify common, core components of patients’ experiences of the NHS. (2) To test these candidate components with (i) further purposive sampling of the interview collections and (ii) a series of focus groups with users. (3) To embed the project alongside the development of NICE clinical guidelines and quality standards. (4) To inform the development of measurement tools on patients’ experiences. (5) To develop and share resources and skills for secondary analysis of qualitative health research.Methods and data sourcesWe used qualitative methods including qualitative secondary analysis, interviews with team members and focus groups. We also ran a workshop on secondary analysis practice and a dissemination seminar. The secondary analysis used narrative interviews from the archive held by the Health Experiences Research Group in Oxford. These interviews have been collected over a 12-year period, number over 3500 and are copyrighted to the University of Oxford for research publications and broadcasting. Other data were digital recordings of interviews and observations at meetings. We prepared reports intended to contribute to NICE clinical guidelines and quality standards development.ResultsWe identified eight consistently important aspects of care: involving the patient in decisions; a friendly and caring attitude; an understanding of how life is affected; seeing the same health professional; guiding through difficult conversations; taking time to explain; pointing towards further support; and efficiently sharing health information across services. Expectations varied but we found few differences in what is valued, even when we tested the reach of these ideas with groups who rarely take part in mainstream health research. The asthma report for NICE highlighted several issues, but only the importance of proper inhaler training contributed to a quality statement. Several barriers were identified to using (unpublished) tailor-made analyses in NICE product development.ConclusionsWe compared the perspectives about what is most valued in health care between people with different health conditions. They were in agreement, even though their experiences of health-care relationships varied enormously. With regard to the NICE clinical guideline and quality standard development process, the usual source of evidence is published qualitative or quantitative research. Unpublished secondary analysis of qualitative data did not fit the usual criteria for evidence. We suggest that targeted secondary analysis of qualitative data has more potential when the qualitative literature is sparse, unclear or contradictory. Further work might include further testing of the identified core components in other patient groups and health conditions, and collaboration with NICE technical teams to establish whether or not it is possible to identify areas of patient experience research where targeted secondary analyses have potential to add to a qualitative literature synthesis.FundingThe National Institute for Health Research Health Services and Delivery Research programme.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sue Ziebland
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Louise Locock
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Ray Fitzpatrick
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Tim Stokes
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, Manchester, UK
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
- Primary Care Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Glenn Robert
- National Nursing Research Unit, Florence Nightingale School of Nursing and Midwifery, King’s College London, London, UK
| | | | - Kristina Bennert
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Sara Ryan
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Victoria Thomas
- Patient and Public Involvement Programme, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, London, UK
| | - Angela Martin
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
López-Medina IM, Gil-García E, Sánchez-Criado V, Pancorbo-Hidalgo PL. Patients’ Experiences of Sexual Activity Following Myocardial Ischemia. Clin Nurs Res 2014; 25:45-66. [DOI: 10.1177/1054773814534440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this article is to describe patients’ experiences of sexual activity after suffering myocardial ischemia. We conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews with people who had suffered myocardial ischemia in the last 6 to 24 months before the interview. We used maximum variation sampling method. After reaching theoretical saturation, a 19-informants sample was formed. Data were analyzed using the Giorgi method. Four themes were identified: “sexual activity becomes different,” “determinants of the return to sexual activity,” “how sexual activity ought to be,” and “sexual information received.” Patients showed a decrease both in frequency and desire for sexual activity influenced by fear of sexual activity and health care professionals’ recommendations. These recommendations were about “avoiding sexuality at the beginning” and conducting “sexual activity without overdoing it.” Health care professionals should educate patients about the right time to resume sexual activity. Nurses can help patients to deal with fears related to sexual activity.
Collapse
|
8
|
Søderberg LH, Johansen PP, Herning M, Berg SK. Women's experiences of sexual health after first-time myocardial infarction. J Clin Nurs 2013; 22:3532-40. [DOI: 10.1111/jocn.12382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lene H Søderberg
- Department of Cardiology; Copenhagen University Hospital Gentofte; Hellerup Denmark
| | - Pernille P Johansen
- Department of Cardiology; Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg; Bispebjerg Denmark
| | - Margrethe Herning
- Department of Cardiology; Copenhagen University Hospital Gentofte; Hellerup Denmark
| | - Selina K Berg
- Department of Cardiology; Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet; Copenhagen Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Forslund AS, Lundblad D, Jansson JH, Zingmark K, Söderberg S. Risk factors among people surviving out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and their thoughts about what lifestyle means to them: a mixed methods study. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2013; 13:62. [PMID: 23981440 PMCID: PMC3765810 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2261-13-62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 08/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The known risk factors for coronary heart disease among people prior suffering an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest with validated myocardial infarction aetiology and their thoughts about what lifestyle means to them after surviving have rarely been described. Therefore the aim of the study was to describe risk factors and lifestyle among survivors. METHODS An explanatory mixed methods design was used. All people registered in the Northern Sweden MONICA myocardial registry between the year 1989 to 2007 who survived out-of-hospital cardiac arrest with validated myocardial infarction aetiology and were alive at the 28th day after the onset of symptoms (n = 71) were included in the quantitative analysis. Thirteen of them participated in interviews conducted in 2011 and analysed via a qualitative manifest content analysis. RESULTS About 60% of the people had no history of ischemic heart disease before the out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, but 20% had three cardiovascular risk factors (i.e., hypertension, diabetes mellitus, total cholesterol of more or equal 5 mmol/l or taking lipid lowering medication, and current smoker). Three categories (i.e., significance of lifestyle, modifying the lifestyle to the new life situation and a changed view on life) and seven sub-categories emerged from the qualitative analysis. CONCLUSIONS For many people out-of-hospital cardiac arrest was the first symptom of coronary heart disease. Interview participants were well informed about their cardiovascular risk factors and the benefits of risk factor treatment. In spite of that, some chose to ignore this knowledge to some extent and preferred to live a "good life", where risk factor treatment played a minor part. The importance of the support of family members in terms of feeling happy and having fun was highlighted by the interview participants and expressed as being the meaning of lifestyle. Perhaps the person with illness together with health care workers should focus more on the meaningful and joyful things in life and try to adopt healthy behaviours linked to these things.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Sofie Forslund
- Department of Research, Norrbotten County Council, Luleå SE-971 89, Sweden.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Svanström R, Sundler AJ. Gradually losing one's foothold--a fragmented existence when living alone with dementia. DEMENTIA 2013; 14:145-63. [PMID: 24339094 DOI: 10.1177/1471301213494510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The number of persons with dementia who lives at home for a longer period of time after diagnosis is increasing. Even if the literature in the dementia field is growing, there is a need for more knowledge about everyday life of persons with a dementia disease; particularly the lived perspective of persons who live alone. The aim of this study was to elucidate the phenomenon of living alone with dementia and having a manifest care need. This phenomenological study was carried out from a reflective lifeworld approach. The data material in the study consisted of field notes from 32 visits and transcriptions from 11 tape-recorded conversations with six participants. The results reveal that the person with dementia who lives alone ends up in a vague existence where they cannot survive alone. The person's level of activity comes to a halt and body movement becomes slower. Daily life becomes more difficult to manage and the person's earlier natural way of relating to the world and the people around them is gradually lost. This is followed by a loneliness and forgetfulness that cloud the meaning of life. This study highlights the importance of the patient's perspective needed to better understand the inner life of a person who suffers from dementia. This understanding is important in the organization of help and care as well as for caregivers to better understand these individuals and their needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rune Svanström
- School of Life Sciences, University of Skövde, Skaraborg-institute, Skövde, Sweden
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Andersson EK, Borglin G, Willman A. The experience of younger adults following myocardial infarction. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2013; 23:762-772. [PMID: 23515297 DOI: 10.1177/1049732313482049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to elucidate the meaning of the experience of younger people (< 55 years) during their first year following a myocardial infarction. We analyzed 17 interviews using a phenomenological-hermeneutic method. The core theme and central phenomenon was the everyday fight to redress the balance in life, which encompassed an existential, physical, and emotional battle to regain a foothold in daily life. The aftermath of a life-threatening event involved a process of transition while at the same time creating a new meaning in life. Lack of energy and its impact on the complex interplay of midlife combined with unreasonable demands from employers and health care professionals seemed to color the experience of the informants. The knowledge gained in this study can constitute a valuable contribution to overall quality assurance in nursing care and the development of nursing interventions for the cardiac rehabilitation of younger patients.
Collapse
|
12
|
Stevens S, Thomas SP. Recovery of Midlife Women From Myocardial Infarction. Health Care Women Int 2012; 33:1096-113. [DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2012.684815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
13
|
Svedberg P, Johansson I, Persson S, Roxberg Å, Fridlund B, Baigi A, Brunt D, Roijer CA, Malm D, Rask M, Nilsson U. Psychometric evaluation of ‘The 25-item Sex after MI Knowledge Test’ in a Swedish context. Scand J Caring Sci 2011; 26:203-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-6712.2011.00909.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
14
|
Healey-Ogden MJ, Austin WJ. Uncovering the lived experience of well-being. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2011; 21:85-96. [PMID: 20682969 DOI: 10.1177/1049732310379113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The words well-being, health, and wellness are commonly used in an interchangeable manner by health care professionals and the lay public. We undertook a hermeneutic phenomenological study of well-being and discovered a soulful strength and a rhythmic flow to this lived experience. There is a letting go that is experienced as a tension and rhythmic interchange, as in breathing. Harmony and balance lie at its foundation. Well-being requires a personal drive to exist. It is not experienced through purposeful means; rather, it is experienced in a self-forgetful way, in the free space where life unfolds and where people come to see their worlds in different ways. The results of this research suggest the experience of well-being holds a significant place within nursing practice for clients and for nurses.
Collapse
|
15
|
Arenhall E, Kristofferzon ML, Fridlund B, Nilsson U. The female partners' experiences of intimate relationship after a first myocardial infarction. J Clin Nurs 2010; 20:1677-84. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2702.2010.03312.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
16
|
McBride-Henry K. The influence of the "they": an interpretation of breastfeeding culture in New Zealand. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2010; 20:768-777. [PMID: 20220150 DOI: 10.1177/1049732310364220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The society in which a woman breastfeeds has a significant effect on how she will interpret her breastfeeding experiences; however, only limited research has been conducted on the phenomenon of breastfeeding, despite the recognition that the majority of women do not breastfeed beyond 6 months. In this article I present the findings of a research study that explored the experience of breastfeeding for 19 women in New Zealand using an interpretive lifeworld methodology. The participants engaged in interviews about their experience of breastfeeding. The interviews were analyzed alongside Heidegger's exposition of the "they" as a dialogical partner. The findings are presented in themes that articulate how women experience societal culture when breastfeeding, and how this culture influences their interpretations of their breastfeeding experiences. This research contributes to expanding understandings about why women might wean their infants prematurely, and provides insights into how health care professionals might support women to prolong breastfeeding.
Collapse
|