Abstract

Breastfeeding brings great benefits to the child and the mother, however it is known that the practice requires encouragement and proper guidance. Even knowing the nutritional and immunological benefits of breastmilk, many mothers interrupt lactation and add artificial formulas in infant feeding, most often due to myths or difficulties in breastfeeding management. The aim of this study was to identify factors that influence early weaning in Ibiá, Minas Gerais, Brazil. It was an exploratory, transversal and quantitative research, conducted through questionnaires administered to mothers of children of 0-6 months. As for the most common problems related to breastfeeding experienced by respondents, the main reported was the presence of "milk weak "or“little milk” with 53.84%. When asked if their children were using pacifiers, 69.73% of respondents reported so. The family and professional support is of utmost importance to the practice of breastfeeding. Nursing should advise on lactation management as well as on the numerous benefits of breast feeding. The nursing team has na important role in this regard, promoting breastfeeding, with preventive actions that contribute to this important stage of the childrens life, thus, breast feeding can belived fully and satisfactorily.

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