title: Breastfeeding experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers in an urban setting in Brisbane.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This study examined urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers' breastfeeding experiences to inform support for mothers and their families.
  
  
  METHODS
  The research took a strengths approach, using qualitative methodology. Twenty semi-structured in-depth face-to-face interviews were conducted and analysed thematically.
  
  
  METHODS
  Indigenous mothers of infants 3 to 12 months were recruited through a Brisbane Indigenous health service.
  
  
  RESULTS
  All mothers recounted considerable physical and emotional energy invested in breastfeeding. Although early introduction of formula made sense for some mothers under stressful circumstances, timely pro-breastfeeding support from family and health professionals facilitated continued breastfeeding. Professional and social/family contacts play key roles in steering infant feeding outcomes.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Mothers' experiences strongly influence infant feeding strategies. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community strengths are underutilised in supporting breastfeeding mothers. FUTURE IMPLICATIONS: Indigenous mothers, family and community strengths present points for engagement in future breastfeeding promotion and support initiatives.
authors.affiliation: Inala Indigenous Health Service. wendy_foley@health.qld.gov.au
authors.forename: Wendy
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Foley
authors.affiliation: School of Population Health, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4006.
authors.forename: Lisa
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Schubert
authors.affiliation: Inala Indigenous Health Service, Queensland Health, Inala QLD 4077.
authors.forename: Tara
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Denaro
mesh_terms: D000739:Anecdotes as Topic; D001315:Australia / Q000453:epidemiology; D001942:Breast Feeding / Q000208:ethnology* / Q000523:psychology*; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior / Q000208:ethnology*; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008425:Maternal Behavior / Q000208:ethnology*; D009034:Mother-Child Relations / Q000208:ethnology*; D014505:Urban Population / Q000706:statistics & numerical data