Breastfeeding in premature infants discharged from baby-friendly hospitals in southeastern Brazil

Abstract

To describe the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) and associated factors in hospital discharge, in the first month after discharge and at six months of age of preterm infants attended at two Baby-Friendly hospitals in Southeastern Brazil. Descriptive, prospective study. Participants were 84 premature infants discharged throughout three months and 71 mothers who met the inclusion criteria. Data collection in medical records and interviews with mothers with use of a structured instrument. In hospital discharge and in the first month at home, 31.0% of the sample were in EBF, and at six months of age, the percentage was 9.1%. The following were associated with EBF in discharge: marital status, maternal occupation, prenatal consultations, type of delivery, gestational age, birth weight, length of hospital stay, and mechanical ventilation. In the first month after discharge: marital status, maternal occupation, prenatal consultations, type of gestation and length of hospital stay. At six months: family income. Rates of EBF in preterm infants fall short of recommendations thereby, special intervention programs are needed.