A Participatory Investigation of Breastfeeding Behavior in the Pakistani Community in the United Kingdom

Objective Pakistani women are more likely to exclusively breastfeed when living in Pakistan compared with when living in the United Kingdom. This study explored breastfeeding behavior in the Pakistani community living in the United Kingdom to understand why and to co-develop strategies to facilitate change. Design Participatory action research was used. Focus group data were collected from co-researchers. A co-produced community event, planned by co-researchers, facilitated the collation of creative consultation data from the wider community. Setting Stoke-on-Trent in the Midlands of the United Kingdom. Participants Fourteen co-researchers and 21 creative consultation contributions made by community members at a community event. Phenomenon of Interest Breastfeeding behavior. Analysis Co-researchers engaged in a workshop to produce a collaborative reflexive thematic analysis and action plan strategies for change. Results Three key areas (1) cultural context influences breastfeeding behavior, (2) education and awareness are essential, and (3) effective support must be culturally informed. Conclusions and Implications Breastfeeding was facilitated by the 40 days, a culturally accepted window following birth when the mother is relieved of other duties and able to focus on their newborn, after which mothers could struggle to balance conflicting demands and responsibilities. Improved education, awareness, and support should be offered prenatally and particularly targeted before the end of the 40 days. Faith-based interventions for mothers and the broader family unit are recommended to improve awareness and accessibility of support.