Factors associated with the interruption of exclusive breastfeeding and weaning in premature infants after hospital discharge: a prospective cohort study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.7740.4832Keywords:
Breast Feeding; Weaning; Premature Infant; Patient Discharge; Risk Factors; Neonatal Nursing.Abstract
Objective: to estimate the incidence of exclusive breastfeeding and weaning in premature infants and identify risk factors after hospital discharge. Method: prospective cohort study with 237 participants. Factors associated with breastfeeding discontinuation and weaning were analyzed using Poisson regression. Results: after discharge, 35.3% (95% CI: 29.6-41.8) interrupted breastfeeding and 9.8% (95% CI: 6.5-14.2) weaned. The following factors were associated with breastfeeding cessation: maternal age (RR=0.70; 95% CI: 0.49-0.99); education (elementary school: RR=1.68; 95% CI: 1.00-2.80; high school: RR=1.79; 95% CI: 1.20-2.66); breast stimulation (>6 h: RR=1.88; 95% CI: 1.13-3.13; no stimulation: RR=1.69; 95% CI: 0.98-2.88); hospitalization (RR=1.85; 95% CI: 1.10-3.08); first feeding (>24 h: RR=0.61; 95% CI: 0.38-0.99; did not breastfeed: RR=0.66; 95% CI: 0.43-1.01); and breastfeeding at discharge (RR=3.64; 95% CI: 2.45-5.40). Weaning was associated with not breastfeeding at discharge (RR=3.64; 95% CI: 2.45-5.40). Conclusion: maternal age, education, hospitalization, and breastfeeding at discharge influenced the interruption of breastfeeding. The absence of breastfeeding at discharge increased the risk of weaning. Early interventions, family support, and policies are essential for maintaining breastfeeding.
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