Interactions With Healthcare Providers Related to Feeding Children With Down Syndrome: Mothers' Perspectives.

BACKGROUND

Feeding is an important health consideration for children with Down syndrome due to their increased risks for feeding challenges and overweight/obesity. Healthcare providers play an important role in providing feeding guidance to families; however, there is limited research on feeding children with Down syndrome and the role of healthcare providers. The purpose of this study is to explore how interactions with healthcare providers contribute to mothers' experiences feeding their children with Down syndrome.

METHODS

In this qualitative study, 29 mothers of children with Down syndrome aged 3-10 years completed semi-structured interviews.

RESULTS

Three themes were identified: (1) Access, provider expertise and maternal concerns, (2) Infant feeding experiences matter and (3) Mothers are experts on and advocates for their children.

CONCLUSION

Gaps in care were identified for children with Down syndrome and their families. Findings have implications for clinical practice and research related to feeding children with Down syndrome.