Motivos del abandono temprano de la lactancia materna exclusiva: un problema de salud pública no resuelto en la ciudad de Medellín.

Objective: to identify the reasons for the early abandonment of exclusive breastfeeding in the city of Medellin in 2011. Methodology: a descriptive study with a 95% confidence interval and a sample of 303 mothers with children under 24 months. These participants were enrolled in one of the social programs of the municipality of Medellin and had abandoned exclusive breastfeeding before the children were six months old. A structured survey was used to collect information regarding the mothers, their children, and the reasons for abandoning early breastfeeding. Frequencies and percentages were described and an assessment was performed to see if motives and age were associated with the abandonment of exclusive breastfeeding. Results: early abandonment occurred mainly before the child was four months old. The main reasons were related to milk production problems, baby rejection, the mother's activities or occupations, and her health status. Additionally, the participants reported the use of infant formulas as substitutes or supplements to breast milk. Conclusions: the reasons for early abandonment of breastfeeding have changed; this is why mothers must have the knowledge needed to increase breast milk production, the assistance of qualified personnel, and the working conditions allowing them to attend to these needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]