Factores psicosociales que influyen para el abandono de lactancia materna exclusiva y fortalezas que promueven la práctica de lactancia en las madres que acuden al control del niño sano en los centros de Loja-2024

Abstract

Abstract: This study explores the psychosocial factors that influence the abandonment of exclusive breastfeeding and the strengths that promote its practice in mothers who attend rural health centers in Loja, Ecuador. A quantitative, observational, and cross sectional study was carried out with 77 mothers of children up to 24 months in rural health centers in Loja. Intentional non-probabilistic sampling was applied through a survey validated by experts. The instrument collected demographic data, social and psychological factors, and strengths that promote exclusive breastfeeding. The analysis was performed using descriptive statistics. The majority of mothers were between 25-29 years old (41.56%), had higher education (40.26%), and were married (38.96%). 53.25% maintained exclusive breastfeeding for more than 6 months. Factors such as stress, anxiety, and postpartum depression significantly influenced abandonment. 64.9% of mothers received family emotional support 92.21% considered more flexible work schedules necessary for nursing mothers. Psychosocial factors, especially work-related and emotional, significantly influence the abandonment of exclusive breastfeeding. Family support and flexible work policies are crucial to promote this practice.