Breastfeeding is widely recognized for its numerous health benefits, particularly for very low birth weight (VLBW) infants, who are among the most vulnerable newborns. It supports better growth, strengthens the immune system, and reduces the risk of serious infections and complications. Despite these well-established benefits, many mothers of VLBW infants do not initiate breastfeeding. A significant reason for this is the emotional stress and anxiety they experience due to their baby’s fragile health. In many cases, medical staff may also hesitate to encourage breastfeeding, fearing it could add to the mother’s emotional burden.

This study aimed to explore whether mothers who had originally planned to formula feed their VLBW infants experienced different levels of stress and anxiety compared to those who had planned to breastfeed. It also examined whether counseling on the benefits of breast milk could influence their decision-making, change their feeding plans, or affect their emotional well-being.

One of the key objectives of the research was to determine if providing breastfeeding counseling to mothers who had initially intended to formula feed would increase their stress and anxiety levels. These mothers were already coping with the emotional toll of having a VLBW infant in neonatal care, and healthcare professionals often worry that pushing the idea of breastfeeding could overwhelm them further. However, the study sought to find out if informed, compassionate counseling could, instead, empower mothers by giving them a greater sense of involvement in their infant’s care and recovery.

Another aim was to assess whether these mothers would reconsider their initial decision after receiving proper guidance about the advantages of breast milk for VLBW infants. Often, mothers are not fully aware of how breast milk can significantly support their baby’s health, especially in cases of prematurity or low birth weight. The study evaluated if targeted counseling could encourage more mothers to switch from formula feeding to providing breast milk.

Finally, the study measured how much breast milk was actually expressed by mothers who had originally intended to formula feed, and compared these outcomes with those of mothers who had planned to breastfeed from the beginning. This comparison helped researchers understand whether counseling had a practical impact not only on maternal intentions but also on actual breastfeeding behavior and milk expression.

The findings from this study have important implications for neonatal care practices. If counseling does not increase anxiety and instead leads to more mothers choosing to provide breast milk, then healthcare providers may be encouraged to actively promote breastfeeding even among initially hesitant mothers. Supporting and educating mothers during this emotionally challenging period can make a significant difference in both maternal mental health and infant outcomes.

In conclusion, this study highlights the potential of supportive counseling to positively influence feeding choices among mothers of VLBW infants. By addressing fears and providing clear, empathetic guidance, medical staff can help mothers feel more confident and involved in their infant’s care, while also improving the chances of successful breast milk provision.