"Motivate to Lactate": Utilizing Motivational Interviewing to Improve Breastfeeding Rates

J Perinat Educ. 2020 Jan 1;29(1):9-15. doi: 10.1891/1058-1243.29.1.9.

Abstract

Promotion of exclusive breastfeeding is a nationwide initiative that has been incorporated into health-care facilities. Staff educators for women's and children's services should consider using motivational interviewing techniques to engage patients in a conversation about breastfeeding. Motivational interviewing has been linked with many positive outcomes in patient-centered care. This research article reveals the staffs' positive perception of adopting these techniques into daily practice and their thoughts on the potential patient outcomes.

Keywords: breastfeeding; lactation; motivational interviewing; nurse perception; patient interaction; staff education.