Breast Feeding in the areas covered by the Family Health Program

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the breastfeeding practice in the areas covered by the Family Health Program in Araxá-MG, Brazil, comparing it to a non-covered area. Methods: A descriptive study that used as a tool for data collection a questionnaire, addressing the proposed subject and applied to 120 mothers of children aged from 6 months to 5 years old, in the period of July to October, 2007. Results: The time of exclusive breastfeeding mainly reported by mothers was from 4 to 6 months and the most referred total time of breastfeeding was 6 to 12 months. According to the mothers’ reports, the colds and diarrhea are much rarer in children who were breastfed for more than 6 months. Myths and taboos related to breast feeding are still frequent. Conclusion: The breastfeeding is practiced by a significant part of the population, but on the other hand, it was also shown that there are much wrong information about breastfeeding and its management. Myths are still present and very ingrained in the population, even in areas where the Family Health Program operates.