July 2024
Australian general practitioners’ experiences, practices and perspectives on postpartum care, contraception and breastfeeding
Keersten Fitzgerald,1 Melissa Kang,1 Kirsten Black2
1University of Sydney, General Practice Clinical School, Sydney, NSW
2University of Sydney, Central Clinical School, Sydney, NSW
Background and objectives
Unintended pregnancies and short interpregnancy intervals (IPIs) are common and can be associated with adverse neonatal and maternal outcomes. Effective postpartum contraception could provide women with more control over their reproductive outcomes. Lactational amenorrhoea can be effective contraception; however, early breastfeeding discontinuation is common.
Methods
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with general practitioners (GPs) in the Sydney Local Health District and focused on GPs’ experiences, practices and perspectives on postpartum care, contraception and breastfeeding. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed for thematic analysis.
Results
The final sample included 21 GP interviews. Preliminary data analysis has commenced, including coding of transcripts and thematic analysis. There are no formal findings at this stage
Discussion
By gaining an understanding of GP provision of postpartum contraception and how this interacts with breastfeeding, we aim to highlight areas for improvement and allow women more control over their reproductive outcomes.