The family and the practice of breastfeeding for low birth weight babies

Abstract

This prospective study following up families at the hospital or in outpatient settings whose babies was born on low weight. The aim of the study was to identify the sources of support and conflict that influenced care and breastfeeding practices, based on family structures and its relationships. Data were collected from 33 families based in genograms, ecomaps and information from a structured protocol. The Symbolic Interactionism was the theoretical reference. Among the families, 24.2% had conflicts within the family and a lack of support for care and breastfeeding. This condition correlated with maternal difficulties, predominantly of emotional nature. With family support, 40% of the breastfeeding women had difficulties relating to management of breastfeeding. The exclusive breastfeeding was possible in accordance with the diagnosis of family conditions and the support conditions encountered. The vulnerable points identification as health assistance to familiars has to be considered in health care.

Descriptors: Family Relationships; Breast Feeding; Infant, Newborn; Maternal Behavior; Family Nursing.