Occupational Stress and Coping During a Public Health Emergency: A Mixed-Methods Approach to Understand the Experiences of Lactation Professionals in Clinical Settings.

Publication date: Aug 12, 2026

Breastfeeding remains the recommended feeding method during public health emergencies; however, pandemic-related restrictions created new challenges for mothers and their healthcare teams, including lactation professionals (LPs). The COVID-19 pandemic may have heightened LPs’ occupational stress and limited their ability to provide lactation support. This study examined occupational stress among LPs, identified stressors and coping strategies, and explored how pandemic-related workplace policies influenced lactation services. A mixed-methods design was employed. A cross-sectional online survey assessed the experiences of hospital- and clinic-based LPs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key informant interviews were conducted to identify stressors, coping strategies, and service delivery impacts. Descriptive and inferential statistics were conducted, and qualitative data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. The sample included 1,373 healthcare professionals. Most LPs (91. 8%) reported moderate to high perceived stress consistent with other studies. Key stressor themes included new policy implementation, evolving personal protective equipment requirements, employment changes, the transition to telehealth, and fear of infection. Participants reported using problem management, emotional regulation, and meaning-based coping strategies. Themes describing impacts on lactation service provision included reduced or delayed support, protected breastfeeding practices, hindered interpersonal connectedness, and telehealth limitations. Clinical policy changes were perceived to both hinder and improve lactation services. During public health emergencies, LPs-especially those with dual role responsibilities-require additional support. Interventions should build upon coping strategies identified in this study. Future research should examine how stressors influence service provision, the effectiveness of coping strategies, and the potential role of geographic context in policy implementation.

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