Objective:

To understand the effect of popular beliefs and practices on early weaning of puerperal women attending the Estratégia Saúde da Família program.

Methodology:

This is a descriptive qualitative study, conducted from April to May 2016 with 22 puerperal women enrolled in the Atendimento Multiprofissional Especializado (AME) Saúde da Família. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and they were analyzed using content analysis.

Results:

Women who participated in this study understood the importance of exclusive breastfeeding. Nevertheless, factors such as return to work/school, beliefs and taboos (for instance, some mothers believe that breast milk is insufficient), latching problems, and fear for breast changes lead to weaning or to include other foods during first six months of the child's life. Most puerperal women did not receive expert guidance on breastfeeding during antenatal care. Those who do received guidance regarded the figure of the nurse as a facilitating agent.

Conclusion:

It is necessary to demystify exclusive breastfeeding and to promote this practice to be possible for a certain period of time.

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