Breastfeeding under the umbrella of support networks: a facilitative strategy

Abstract

Abstract Objectives: To know the aspects related to breastfeeding from the perspective of women in a city in the inland of Rio de Janeiro and to discuss the family support network created as a facilitation strategy for women to breastfeed their children. Methods: A qualitative, descriptive and exploratory research. For data collection, a semi-structured interview script instrument was developed. The focus groups were filmed, and the speeches transcribed in full. Data was divided and grouped into thematic categories. A total of ten volunteer women participated. The reference used was the National Breastfeeding Policy. Results: The following categories emerged from the focus groups: Breastfeeding: facilities and difficulties faced; Prenatal specificities and identification of the support network during breastfeeding. Conclusion and implications for practice: Breastfeeding is an action based on subjectivity, women's experience and among members of the social network. The results point to the need for effective participation of prenatal nurses who promote breastfeeding and the inclusion of the father for better participation in the entire breastfeeding process and family members, where both play a key role in promoting breastfeeding, and continued breastfeeding. Maternal exclusive.