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Motivation For Breastfeeding: Influence Of The Characteristics Of The Baby And The Pregnancy

Although the advantages of breastfeeding are well known, the adherence to this practice is still far from recommended, being influenced by psychological, biological, social and cultural factors. The aim of this study is to determine if the characteristics of the pregnancy (duration, date of the first prenatal surveillance visit, number of consultations, breastfeeding information, attendance of course on preparation for parenthood and existence of complications in pregnancy) and the characteristics of the baby (sex, weight, hungry breast seeking) influence the motivation for breastfeeding. A quantitative, descriptive and correlational study was conducted with a sample of 219 women, with a mean age 32.59 years (SD= 5.86). A questionnaire, which characterizes the pregnancy and the baby at birth, was applied to the sample at the two-year child health surveillance visit. The Motivation Scale for Breastfeeding, adapted from Nelas, Ferreira and Duarte (2008) was included. The study found that variables that influence motivation are term pregnancy, the first prenatal surveillance visit in the first trimester, the number of surveillance visits greater than six, information on breastfeeding, eutocic delivery and not having attended a course on preparation for parenthood. The characteristics of the baby do not influence the motivation. Considering the multiplicity of factors that influence the motivation, practice and maintenance of breastfeeding, we recommend programs that promote maintenance. There should also be support from health professionals to help overcome the difficulties encountered, preventing the early cessation of breastfeeding. © 2018 Published by Future Academy www.FutureAcademy.org.UK