ALEITAMENTO MATERNO: CONHECIMENTO E EXPERIÊNCIA DE MÃES

Abstract

Breastfeeding brings numerous benefits for both mother and baby; however, its prevalence in Brazil is far below the recommended levels. Therefore, it is undeniable the importance of research to understand the reasons that lead to early weaning. Objective: To analyze mothers' perception of the benefits of breastfeeding. Methodology: This is a descriptive, exploratory study with a quantitative approach, of a cross-sectional design carried out in the Joint Accommodation of the maternity ward and in the Pediatric Inpatient Unit of the Maria Aparecida Pedrossian University Hospital (HUMAP). Data collection was carried out through a questionnaire containing 25 questions, with 6 questions on socio-demographic data, 14 questions on experience with breastfeeding, and 5 questions on mothers' knowledge about breastfeeding. Results: It was observed that mothers' knowledge about breastfeeding did not influence the duration of breastfeeding. However, the main reasons for discontinuing breastfeeding were the mother working outside the home, a new pregnancy, natural weaning, weak or insufficient milk, formula feeding, and the use of pacifiers and bottles. In addition, the main factors that hindered breastfeeding, according to the interviewed mothers, were breast complications, such as pain, fissures, and breast engorgement. Conclusion: It is hoped that the results presented in this study can enrich nursing care practice and contribute to the deepening of this theme, given that the existing literature on the importance of mothers' knowledge about breastfeeding in its duration is still scarce.