Yalbilinya miya (learn together): Privileging the voices of Aboriginal mothers and Elders to develop a community-led breastfeeding program

Background Breastfeeding provides the best start to life; however, some women experience challenges with breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is an important practice for culture, nutrition and wellbeing for Aboriginal mothers and children in Australia, particularly in the context of historical and ongoing forced separations of Aboriginal mothers and their children. This study aims to highlight the breastfeeding perspectives and experiences of Aboriginal mothers and Elders; and identify the supports Aboriginal mothers desire to empower them to initiate and reach their breastfeeding goals. This information will inform the design and implementation of a holistic breastfeeding program in regional Australia in an Aboriginal community-controlled health service, Riverina Medical & Dental Aboriginal Corporation (RivMed). Methods This study used the Indigenous qualitative method of Yarning and was based on Wiradjuri Country (Wagga Wagga). Two participant types were included in this study: Aboriginal mothers who had given birth within the last five years and were patients of Riverina Medical and Dental Aboriginal Corporation (RivMed); and female Aboriginal Elders who had personal breastfeeding experience and had supported other Aboriginal women in their breastfeeding journey. Participants were invited by the RivMed Aboriginal research coordinator to participate in one-on-one Yarning or a Yarning circle conducted by female Aboriginal researchers. Results Overall, 20 Aboriginal women participated, 15 mothers of children aged under five years, and five Elders. Four themes emerged: 1) Intergenerational knowledge transfer; 2) influences of partner, family, community and workplace on breastfeeding; 3) challenges with initiating or continuing breastfeeding; and 4) the need for culturally responsive, community-led supports. Conclusion This study highlights the need for culturally responsive and community-led resources and programs to support Aboriginal women to initiate and continue to breastfeed their babies. The role of Aboriginal Elders was important in the intergenerational transfer of knowledge and cultural support, especially for first time mothers, or those who did not have breastfeeding role models in their own families.