Investigation of breastfeeding focusing on the exclusivity of this practice in the first semester of the child's life, in a municipality in the north of Minas Gerais

Abstract

Objective: to investigate breastfeeding with a focus on the exclusivity of this practice in the first semester of a child's life, in a municipality in the north of Minas Gerais. Method: this is a descriptive, qualitative study carried out with 13 mothers aged between 24 and 39 years old. Data were collected between August and September 2023 from a semi-structured interview and analyzed using Thematic Analysis. Results: women indicated that they faced difficulties in practicing exclusive breastfeeding, especially in the first days of the child's life, due to engorgement, mastitis, breast fissures, social and personal pressure of weak milk. The benefits of exclusive breastfeeding were identified as immunological protection, strengthening bonds, preventing diseases and malnutrition in children, as well as accelerating uterine involution and preventing cancer in women. Support from family, partner and healthcare team was identified as factors that facilitate breastfeeding, but they indicated that they received little guidance from professionals about breastfeeding. Conclusion: the importance of the health team acting with a zealous eye towards this public is highlighted, intensifying guidance on exclusive breastfeeding in order to reduce doubts and difficulties in increasing the duration and exclusivity rates of exclusive breastfeeding.