Mothers with Tandem Breastfeeding Experience: A Qualitative Study

This study aims to explore the experiences of breastfeeding mothers during pregnancy in tandem breastfeeding. This research is a qualitative study conducted using the phenomenological research design. Data saturation was achieved after 11 participants were interviewed. The content analysis approach was used to analyze the data. Interview transcriptions were systematically examined, and the study findings were gathered under 4 main themes within the framework of tandem breastfeeding from the perspective of breastfeeding women. These main themes consist of decision to continue tandem breastfeeding, tandem information support/search, maternal experience in tandem breastfeeding, and recommendations for mothers. The participants mostly shared their experiences in the effects of tandem breastfeeding on child health, pregnancy, and breast milk. Both mothers' own beliefs and feelings and community beliefs affected their decision to continue tandem breastfeeding. Mothers who tandem breastfed in this study need information and support.