Schlome, DanicaKruger, EsedraPillay, Bhavani S.2025-07-242025-07-242025-01Schlome, D., Krüger, E., & Pillay, B. (2025). A qualitative inquiry of speech-language therapists’ views about breastfeeding management. South African Journal of Communication Disorders, 72(1), a1070. https://doi.org/10.4102/sajcd.v72i1.1070.0379-8046 (print)2225-4765 (online)10.4102/sajcd.v72i1.1070http://hdl.handle.net/2263/103582This article is partially based on the first author’s, D.S., dissertation entitled ‘Perspectives on breastfeeding management by South African speech-language therapists: A qualitative study’ towards the degree of MA Speech-Language Pathology in the Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, University of Pretoria, South Africa, April 2023, with supervisors Dr Esedra Krüger and Mrs Bhavani Pillay. It is available here: https://repository.up.ac.za/handle/2263/89322. DATA AVAILABILITY : The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author, E.K. upon reasonable request.BACKGROUND : Management of oropharyngeal dysphagia within the first few days of an infant’s life results in favourable breastfeeding outcomes, indicating the importance of investigating the breastfeeding management practices of speech-language therapists (SLTs) working within this field. OBJECTIVES : Little has been published about SLTs’ management of breastfeeding in low- and middle-income settings. This study explores the perspectives of a group of experienced South African SLTs on their approach to breastfeeding management. METHOD : Qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured online interviews with 12 experienced SLTs and were subjected to thematic analysis. RESULTS : Three main themes emerged: (1) Approach to breastfeeding management; (2) Exposure, skills and knowledge related to breastfeeding management and (3) Perspectives and attitudes towards breastfeeding management. Participants demonstrated a clear understanding of their roles within the scope of breastfeeding management, which aligns with established literature. Their approaches appeared to be influenced by their perspectives and attitudes towards breastfeeding, as well as their exposure, skills and knowledge in this area. The study underscores the need for breastfeeding training in undergraduate programmes and highlights the demand for continuous professional development opportunities. CONCLUSION : While the findings are drawn from a small sample of experienced clinicians, they offer valuable insights for speech-language pathology clinical educators and professional organisations. CONTRIBUTION : This study suggests a re-evaluation of university curricula to enhance exposure to breastfeeding management.en© 2025. The Authors. Licensee: AOSIS. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.Speech-language therapist (SLT)Breastfeeding managementPerspectivesScope and rolesQualitative researchExclusive breastfeeding (EBF)Article