Breastfeeding and factors associated with early weaning in the municipality of Corbélia, Paraná, Brazil

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate breastfeeding in the municipality of Corbélia, Paraná - Brazil as well as to identify sociodemographic and cultural factors related to early weaning. This is a cross-sectional study carried out between January and June 2022 with 130 mothers of children up to two years of age to whom a structured questionnaire was applied using a quantitative-qualitative approach. Univariate association analysis and the logistic regression model were used to identify factors associated with weaning. Content analysis helped with organizing and interpreting the qualitative data. The results showed: 53.8% of exclusive breastfeeding in the first six months and 94.6% of breastfeeding in the first hours. The chance of weaning was higher among mothers with a family income of 1 to 3 minimum wages, high school education, and prenatal care provided only at the family health units of Corbélia. It was also higher among children with ages in the age groups [0, 6) and [6, 12) months. The main reasons associated with the decision to stop breastfeeding were: the claim of weak or insufficient milk, difficulty for the baby to latch onto the breast, cracked breasts, the baby having completed six months, and the mother returning to work. Knowing the factors and reasons associated with early weaning in Corbélia allows them to be prioritized in actions to promote and support breastfeeding. To this end, qualified health professionals are essential to effectively guide pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women about the benefits of breast milk and the difficulties that may arise during the breastfeeding process.