Melissa Morns

Ms. Melissa Morns

University of Technology Sydney
+1
orcid

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

8Years (2019-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

View All Publications
BMBrahm Marjadi
Brahm Marjadi
JFJoanne Flavel
Joanne Flavel
KBKirsten Baker
Kirsten Baker
KGKristen Glenister
Kristen Glenister
Melissa MornsMelissa Morns
Melissa Morns
PGPaul Gardiner
Paul Gardiner
This paper outlines practical tips for inclusive healthcare practice and service delivery, covering diversity aspects and intersectionality. A team with wide-ranging lived experiences from a national public health association’s diversity, equity, and inclusion group compiled the tips, which were reiteratively discussed and refined. The final twelve tips were selected for practical and broad applicability. The twelve chosen tips are: (a) beware of assumptions and stereotypes, (b) replace labels with appropriate terminology, (c) use inclusive language, (d) ensure inclusivity in physical space, (e) use inclusive signage, (f) ensure appropriate communication methods, (g) adopt a strength-based approach, (h) ensure inclusivity in research, (i) expand the scope of inclusive healthcare delivery, (j) advocate for inclusivity, (k) self-educate on diversity in all its forms, and (l) build individual and institutional commitments. The twelve tips are applicable across many aspects of diversity, providing a practical guide for all healthcare workers (HCWs) and students to improve practices. These tips guide healthcare facilities and HCWs in improving patient-centered care, especially for those who are often overlooked in mainstream service provision.

1 March 2021 in Women and Birth
Verified
Journal Article
Closed access
Melissa MornsMelissa Morns
Melissa Morns
ASAmie E. Steel
Amie E. Steel
EBElaine Burns
Elaine Burns
EMErica McIntyre
Erica McIntyre

7 January 2022 in Women and Birth
Verified
Journal Article
Closed access
Melissa MornsMelissa Morns
Melissa Morns
ASAmie E. Steel
Amie E. Steel
EMErica McIntyre
Erica McIntyre
EBElaine Burns
Elaine Burns

17 April 2023 in Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
Melissa MornsMelissa Morns
Melissa Morns
ASAmie E. Steel
Amie E. Steel
EMErica McIntyre
Erica McIntyre
EBElaine Burns
Elaine Burns
Introduction: For many women, breastfeeding their infant is an enjoyable experience. Some, however, have reported negative sensations such as an overwhelming need to unlatch while breastfeeding. This phenomenon is known as breastfeeding aversion response (BAR). The incidence of BAR is unknown and literature on this experience is limited. This study therefore aimed to expand the understanding of BAR using an online survey targeting those who have experienced feelings of aversion while breastfeeding.Methods: An online survey was distributed within Australia using purposive sampling to those who self‐identified as experiencing BAR. This survey contained 5 sections: (1) demographics and health‐related characteristics, (2) breastfeeding difficulties and onset of BAR, (3) the experience of BAR, (4) birth and breastfeeding experience, and (5) coping with BAR and support. Questions were included to test the generalizability of previous qualitative findings on BAR.Results: Participants (N = 210) predominantly were aged between 25 and 35 years (69.2%), were in a relationship (96.2%), and had one child (80%). BAR was more commonly experienced when feeding the first‐born child (44.8%), breastfeeding while pregnant (31%), or tandem feeding (10%). The feelings of aversion were experienced by most respondents throughout the feed while the child was latched (76.7%). More than half (52.4%) of participants reported that BAR had caused them to end breastfeeding sessions before their child was ready to stop feeding. Almost half of the participants (48.6%) reported receiving no support from a health care provider for BAR.Discussion: This study contributes new information about the experience of BAR, including when it commonly happens and who may be at greater risk. More support is needed for women who want to breastfeed while experiencing BAR. New public health policies which promote breastfeeding are needed to help women achieve satisfying breastfeeding experiences and meet their own breastfeeding goals.

25 May 2023 in Maternal & Child Nutrition
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
Melissa MornsMelissa Morns
Melissa Morns
EBElaine Burns
Elaine Burns
EMErica McIntyre
Erica McIntyre
ASAmie E. Steel
Amie E. Steel
Some women who breastfeed will experience complex ongoing difficulties, such as breastfeeding aversion response (BAR). This recently named breastfeeding challenge is defined as feelings of aversion while breastfeeding for the entire time that the child is latched. This study provides the first prevalence data for the experience of BAR in Australian breastfeeding women. A national online survey investigated the breastfeeding experience of Australian women including data on (1) participant demographics, (2) breastfeeding experience with up to four children, (3) breastfeeding challenges and prevalence of BAR, and (4) the value of available breastfeeding support. This study found that of the Australian breastfeeding women who participated (n = 5511), just over one in five self‐identified as having experienced a BAR (n = 1227, 22.6%). Most reported experiencing some breastfeeding challenges, with only 4.5% (n = 247) having had no breastfeeding complications. Importantly, despite these difficulties, 86.9% of the total women in this study rated their overall breastfeeding experience as good (n = 2052, 37.6%), or very good (n = 2690, 49.3%), and 82.5% of those who experience BAR as good (n = 471, 38.7%) or very good (n = 533, 43.8%). BAR reporting was decreased in higher education and income groups. Women who are breastfeeding for the first time are more likely to encounter difficulties with breastfeeding such as BAR. Complications with breastfeeding are pervasive, but women who can overcome breastfeeding issues often report a positive overall breastfeeding experience.

1 March 2019 in Advances in Integrative Medicine
Verified
Journal Article
Closed access
Melissa MornsMelissa Morns
Melissa Morns
DBDiana Bowman
Diana Bowman
Amie SteelAmie Steel
Amie Steel