Factors Associated with the Breastfeeding Aversion Response

Background: The breastfeeding aversion response (BAR) is defined as the compulsion to remove the baby from the breast in response to negative physical sensations experienced during breastfeeding. This phenomenon is characterized by involuntary and overwhelming feelings of disgust that arise during breastfeeding or at various stages of the breastfeeding process. Objectives: The aim of the study is to evaluate the frequency of BAR and affecting factors in mothers with breastfeeding experience in Türkiye. Methods: The survey was conducted online using the Google Forms® tool, accessible from November 2, 2023, to January 5, 2024. A total of 1,046 mothers with breastfeeding experience were included in the research. Results: A total of 9.8% (n = 103) of mothers participating in the study stated that they experienced BAR. Fatigue (23.3%), breastfeeding a toddler (19.4%), and breast pain (18.4%) were the most frequently reported risk factors for BAR. The BAR rate was higher among working mothers (p = 0.037), those lacking spousal support (p = 0.001), mothers diagnosed with postpartum depression (p = 0.009), and those encountering breastfeeding problems (p = 0.007). Conclusion: Further research on the factors that trigger BAR, its severity, and what symptoms it may cause may provide guidance on how midwives and nurses working with breastfeeding mothers can support these mothers, how to prevent BAR, and possible treatment options. The findings of our study revealed that BAR is especially affected by psychological processes. For this reason, it is recommended to approach breastfeeding in the postpartum period as a holistic experience that also includes psychological and sociocultural processes rather than solely from a physiological perspective.