Abstract

LOPEZ M, Beatriz E.; MARTINEZ G, LeidyJ.  and  ZAPATA L, Natalia J.. Reasons for abandoning early exclusive breastfeeding: an unsolved public health problem in Medellín. Rev. Fac. Nac. Salud Pública [online]. 2013, vol.31, n.1, pp.117-126. ISSN 0120-386X.

OBJECTIVE: to identify the reasons for the early abandonment of exclusive breastfeeding in the city of Medellin in 2011.   METHODOLOGY an ethnographic study whose participants were 20 mothers of children with Down's syndrome. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and field observations. Similarly, this study included a categorical analysis and a literature review.   RESULTS : early abandonment occurred mainly before the child was four months old. The main reasons were related to milk production problems, baby rejection, the mother's activities or occupations, and her health status. Additionally, the participants reported the use of infant formulas as substitutes or supplements to breast milk.   CONCLUSION: the reasons for early abandonment of breastfeeding have changed; this is why mothers must have the knowledge needed to increase breast milk production, the assistance of qualified personnel, and the working conditions allowing them to attend to these needs.

Keywords : lactancia materna exclusiva; motivos; exclusive breastfeeding; reasons; early dropout.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in Spanish     · Spanish ( pdf )