Breastfeeding culture in Balinese society: A qualitative study

Aim: This study aims to identify breastfeeding traditions in Balinese society. Method: This study uses a qualitative method with purposive and snowball sampling techniques. In-depth interviews were conducted face-to-face at the participants’ homes. The participants were 22 mothers with babies in the North Badung area, Bali. All interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using a content analysis approach. Result: Five major themes were identified: (1) postnatal traditions; (2) support for breastfeeding mothers; (3) infant feeding; (4) breastfeeding problems; and (5) efforts to promote breastfeeding. Conclusion: Postnatal traditions, support for breastfeeding mothers, exclusive breastfeeding, and efforts to promote breastfeeding are cultures in society that can support exclusive breastfeeding. While feeding a baby other than breast milk and breastfeeding problems hinder exclusive breastfeeding. Families, traditional/religious leaders, and health workers must always collaborate to maximize exclusive breastfeeding.