Factors associated with early weaning in a Spanish region

Introduction: Breastfeeding has undoubtedly great benefits. Previous studies have foundan early dropout. Only a few studies have investigated related factors. Our aim was to find out on-going breastfeeding rates along the first 12 months after birth and analyse factors associated with early weaning. Material and methods: This is a prospective study including consecutive pairs (mother and newborn) till completion of the required sample. Variables were collected performing a structured program of surveys to the mothers. Bivariate and multivariate analysis of the data was performed. Results: A total of 452 pairs were recruited. It was found that 81% of them started breastfeeding, with a prevalence of breastfeeding of 39% and 21% at 3 and 6 months after birth, respectively. Factors associated with early discontinuation of breastfeeding were: pregnancy induced by assisted reproduction methods (OR = 5.58; 95% CI: 2.62-11.91), maternal smoking (OR = 1.56; 95% CI: 1.10-2.22), poor maternal expectations about the duration of breastfeeding (OR = 2.19; 95% CI: 1.49-3.23), use of nipple shields for breastfeeding (OR = 2.57; 95% CI: 1.69-3.90), pacifier use on a regular basis during the first month after delivery (OR = 1.39; 95% CI: 1.02-1.91), maternal university educational level (OR= 0,59; 95% CI: 0,40-0,88), attending birth preparation programs during pregnancy (OR = 0,68; 95% CI: 0,49-0,94), and believing having enough milk output at the time of discharge (OR= 0,66; 95% CI: 0,47-0,92). Conclusions: International recommendations about duration of breastfeeding are not achieved in our country because of high rates of early weaning. We describe the known factors involved and other novel factors. The implementation of interventions to increase breastfeeding rates and to prevent early weaning are strongly recommended. (C) 2012 Asociacion Espanola de Pediatria. Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L. All rights reserved.