R J McInnes1, D H Stone. 1. Research Midwife, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Glasgow, UK. rjmilu@clinmed.gla.ac.uk
Abstract
AIM: to document the process of implementing and maintaining a community-based peer-support programme. DESIGN AND SETTING: a community-based study located in a socio-economically disadvantaged housing estate on the outskirts of Glasgow. PARTICIPANTS: pregnant women residing in a target postcode area. INTERVENTION: a programme of peer counselling and support for breast feeding, comprising antenatal and postnatal home visits over a period of three years. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: peer support may provide an acceptable and appropriate role model for breast-feeding mothers. However, further research is required on other influential factors such as the social network and the impact of this programme on the peer supporter. CONCLUSIONS: despite a low prevalence of breast feeding, initiating and maintaining peer breast-feeding support was possible. Peer support appeared to be acceptable to mothers and health professionals. Study mothers spoke enthusiastically of the intervention and mentioned increased confidence and self-esteem.
AIM: to document the process of implementing and maintaining a community-based peer-support programme. DESIGN AND SETTING: a community-based study located in a socio-economically disadvantaged housing estate on the outskirts of Glasgow. PARTICIPANTS: pregnant women residing in a target postcode area. INTERVENTION: a programme of peer counselling and support for breast feeding, comprising antenatal and postnatal home visits over a period of three years. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: peer support may provide an acceptable and appropriate role model for breast-feeding mothers. However, further research is required on other influential factors such as the social network and the impact of this programme on the peer supporter. CONCLUSIONS: despite a low prevalence of breast feeding, initiating and maintaining peer breast-feeding support was possible. Peer support appeared to be acceptable to mothers and health professionals. Study mothers spoke enthusiastically of the intervention and mentioned increased confidence and self-esteem.
Authors: Christine A Murphy; Margaret E Cupples; Andrew Percy; Henry L Halliday; Moira C Stewart Journal: BMC Health Serv Res Date: 2008-02-27 Impact factor: 2.655