Panorama do aleitamento materno exclusivo em usuárias do SUS no município de Itabaiana-SE

Abstract

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is recommended in the first 6 months of life, but its prevalence is still below the ideal. This study aimed to outline the current panorama of EBF in SUS users from Itabaiana-SE; as well as to outline the socioeconomic profile of the participants and to identify factors of influence in this process, in addition to the foods most introduced before 6 months of life. A cross-sectional epidemiological study was carried out using a structured questionnaire adapted by convenience sample in mothers of children under 2 years of age. Statistical analysis was performed after descriptive analysis of categorical variables, using the chi-square test and Fisher's exact test; with a level of significance of less than 5%. The most common socioeconomic profile was mothers with intermediate ages, married, primary education and family income above the poverty line. The prevalence of EBF was 60.4%. The main reason for the interruption of the referred EBF was "problems in breastfeeding". Among the interviewees, 72.4% affirmed breastfeeding, whether exclusive or not. The main protective factors found in the study were: more than 5 childcare consultations; encouragement of the spouse; return to usual work activities 5 months after childbirth; and no use of pacifiers, suckles or bottle. The main foods introduced were water, sweet or salty porridge and starter formula. It is expected that, through an understanding of local factors influencing breastfeeding and consequent better targeting of actions aimed at adequate preparation of families for this period and adequate use of resources in public health, there is an improvement in EBF indicators.