Factors related to exclusive breastfeeding in the context of Primary Health Care

PURPOSE: To identify factors related to exclusive breastfeeding up to the sixth month of life of babies in Primary Health Care services. METHODS: Quantitative, cross-sectional study, carried out with 261 mothers with 12-month-old babies, coming from health units in Porto Alegre. Data related to exclusive breastfeeding, sociodemographic characteristics, maternal mental health, family relationships and childcare follow-up were analyzed using t-tests, chi-square and Poisson regression model. RESULTS: The rate of exclusive breastfeeding until the sixth month of life was 41%. The mother having a partner increased the rates of exclusive breastfeeding by 46%, while returning to work before six months reduced the chances of exclusive breastfeeding by 31%. No significant association was identified between exclusive breastfeeding and sociodemographic variables, maternal mental health, family relationships, and child health monitoring. CONCLUSION: The presence of a maternal partner and the woman's return to work after the baby's six months of life were identified as protectors to exclusive breastfeeding. Health interventions that promote the support network, policies to encourage the practice and transmission of knowledge about breastfeeding are important for better rates of exclusive breastfeeding.