Breastfeeding coaching as an intervention to support working mothers in Egypt

Abstract

This study explores a breastfeeding coaching intervention to support working mothers in Egypt. Twenty-eight working mothers with breastfeeding experience were interviewed. Semi-structured interviews were used, and self-efficacy and well-being scores were assessed. Thematic Analysis was used to identify overarching themes leading to three higher-level themes, namely: “Transition into motherhood”, “Going back to work”, and “Benefits to the organization”. Findings show that working mothers need support from direct managers in their workplace, and professional breastfeeding support through coaching. The results are smoother transitions into motherhood and return to work, while successfully continuing with breastfeeding and maintaining their performance and wellbeing.

Keywords

• coaching psychology
• self-efficacy
• breastfeeding coaching
• women at workplace
• egypt