Aleitamento materno no contexto da prematuridade: estudo comparativo

Breastfeeding in the context of prematurity: a comparative study

Abstract

Objective: to analyze and compare the structure and process of breastfeeding of premature newborns in neonatal intensive care units from the perspective of health professionals. Method: cross-sectional study carried out with 148 health professionals who were interviewed using a form. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson's X2 and Fisher's Exact tests. Results: Less than half of the professionals interviewed from both institutions supported the performance of the first breast milking and encouraged all family members to perform the kangaroo position in the neonatal unit and the continuity of this care at home. Professionals from institution A advise more about the existence of support groups for breastfeeding (p=0.00001) and about access to groups or support services after hospital discharge (p=0.004472) than professionals from the institution B. Conclusion: the study found that there are weaknesses in the structure and process of breastfeeding in relation to promotion and support actions in both health services.