Myths and beliefs about breastfeedingin the state of Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil)

Introduction: Despite the proven benefits of breastfeeding, early cessation of breastfeeding is still prevalent, occurring significantly. Objectives: To assess the knowledge of pregnant women in prenatal care of a teaching hospital about myths / beliefs related to breastfeeding and to assess its influence on intention / duration of breastfeeding. Methods: Application of a questionnaire on socioeconomic factors, knowledge of myths / beliefs about breastfeeding and breastfeeding intention. Results: The study included 117 pregnant women, aged 27.3 +/- 6.6 years, nnost economy class C and with complete secondary or higher education. The best known and believed myth was "dried milk/dry"."Breast milk does not kill the baby seat" and "breasts fall with breastfeeding" were associated with less education, while "weak milk" and "milk does not kill the baby seat" were associated with major economic class C. Discussion:factors for early weaning were alleged "myths related to breastfeeding", "laziness or unwillingness to breastfeed" and "work". Conclusion:The myths / beliefs surrounding breastfeeding were very present in the daily lives of pregnant women as a cause of early weaning and should be studied more carefully and strategies designed to mitigate its negative impact on the population-nurturer.