O enfermeiro e o aleitamento materno na estratégia de saúde da famíla

Abstract

Breast milk is the primary source of feeding the child and brings many benefits: it possess immunobiological constituents, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties. Breastfed children have fewer respiratory infections, gastrointestinal disorders, diarrhea and allergies. The objective of this study was to do a survey on breastfeeding, with its historical, social, cultural and psychological aspectsl, on the anatomo-physiology of the breast and lactation, difficulties, advantages and laws of breastfeeding, breastfeeding and weaning techniques and performance of nurses in care of breastfeeding. Finally, we sought secondary data from a group of pregnant women of the Municipal Berilo - MG, in order to examine the breastfeeding mothers. The results indicate that besides strengthening the defense system of the child, breast milk is a sign of unconditional love. But despite the clear benefits, many professionals and the public have little information about breastfeeding, breast anatomy, physiology, correct techniques of breastfeeding, among others. A smaller portion (26%) of mothers had no exclusive breastfeeding until six months old. We discuss that the lack of guidance and encouragement lead many mothers to stop breastfeeding or start nor succeed as well as physical problems, emotional and socio-economic unenlightened in the gestational period. The nurses and staff should make every effort to protect, promote and support breastfeeding, and to identify possible beliefs that lead these mothers to stop breastfeeding or not to do so exclusively for the first six months.