Perceptions and knowledge of a pregnant women group on breast-feeding – a qualitative study

Abstract

The current research focused on identifying the pregnant women perceptions and knowledge about the importance of breast-feeding to their babies’ health and their own, and also its influence on the babies’ oral health. It also inquired about possible factors implied in the early interruption of breast-feeding. It is a descriptive study with a qualitative approach. The sample was consisted of 11 women who were followed up in a primary health facility localized in Porto Alegre during their low risk pregnancy, in 2005. The data were collected through focal group techniques and the use of discourse analysis according to Bardin5 (1997). It was identified that all women interviewed considered breast-feeding as an important act for their babies’ health and adequate growth and development. They understand that breast feeding is a great advantage for their children, showing that their knowledge is consistent with the current theoretical referential about that theme. On the other hand, pregnant women are unaware of the breastfeeding advantages for postpartum recuperation, for woman and baby’s oral health. The results led us to conclude that, for the group it was studied, perceptions, knowledge, feelings and prior experiences of pregnant women and their relatives are important factors for breast-feeding. This way, approaching the advantages and difficulties of breast feeding, from the knowledge and expectations of pregnant women, taking into consideration their feelings, it can make them feel safer to overcome possible breastfeeding adversities.