Factors associated with interruption of exclusive breastfeeding in low birth weight infants receiving primary care

This study aimed to identify factors associated with interruption of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) in low birth weight infants receiving primary care. This was a cross-sectional study of 170 infants treated at primary care units on the urban periphery of Sao Paulo, Brazil. The sample included infants with birth weight <= 2,500g (including twins) and 5-minute Apgar >= 7, followed until the third month of life, and excluded infants/mothers with complications that would impede EBF, besides infant/maternal deaths. Data were collected from forms completed during consultations and patient records. Prevalence ratios were obtained by Poisson regression. The following factors were associated with interruption of EBF in the first three months of life: maternal age <= 18 years; informal employment (protective factor); alcohol intake during pregnancy; < 6 prenatal visits; multiple gestations; birth weight <= 2,000g; difficulty breastfeeding in the first month; complaints in breastfeeding during the first month; and use of pacifiers in the first two months. Prior knowledge of these factors can help plan measures and policies to increase EBF rates among low birth weight infants.