Research helps new mum achieve her breastfeeding goal

First-time mothers are more likely to intend to breastfeed than mothers who have had children before. Although 80% of new mums breastfeed for their baby's first feed, just 0.5% are still breastfeeding at one year. This World Breastfeeding Week a first-time mother shared her story of taking part in the study which helped her breastfeeding journey. 

Nurse Kirsty Pascoe, 26 from Swansea, took part in the ABA-feed study, led by a team of specialist midwives at Swansea Bay University Health Board and supported by Health and Care Research Wales. This UK-wide study paired mothers wanting to breastfeed with a mentor who provided additional peer support and advice for the mothers on top of the standard care they received.  

Why did you take part in the study? 

Kirsty found out about the study during her 20-week scan. As an NHS worker herself, Kirsty was aware of the positive impact research studies can have on patient care. Her motivation was clear:  

“I’ve seen firsthand at work the impact of research, so of course I said yes.” 

What was your experience of taking part in the study? 

Kirsty's breastfeeding journey began with some uncertainty. Coming from a family with minimal experience in breastfeeding, she was unsure if it would work for her. However, the support she received through the study was crucial. 

When Kirsty joined the study, she was assigned a specially trained ABA-feed Infant Feeding Helper named Sam. This mentorship proved invaluable, especially since Kirsty had no close friends or family members with breastfeeding experience. Sam's guidance and the additional resources provided through the study, such as support networks and Facebook groups, played a crucial role in Kirsty's success.  

"Having that extra support made me feel a lot more relieved.” 

Despite a challenging birth and initial breastfeeding difficulties, Kirsty decided to try breastfeeding with her son Jackson. Sam's continuous support through WhatsApp and regular check-ins was instrumental.  

“She offered not just advice but also a lot of encouragement to keep trying. 

“Eventually, after a lot of sleepless nights and messages from Sam, Jack is now exclusively breastfed, happy and healthy.”  

What would you say to other people about taking part in research? 

Kirsty believes that the support and information gained through such research studies are invaluable. For her, the peer support and the network of mothers she accessed through the study made a significant difference. She encourages others to consider the potential benefits not just for themselves but for future parents and the advancement of medical knowledge. 

For more information about how to take part in research like this visit Be Part of Research and consider signing up to be contacted about future studies.