Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding exclusive breastfeeding among first-time mothers: knowledge gaps and the risk of early weaning

Abstract

Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding exclusive breastfeeding among primiparous mothers, including an examination of myths, beliefs, cultural perceptions, and sociocultural barriers that influence the breastfeeding experience. Materials and methods: Quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study. The study included 534 primiparous mothers, aged 18 years or older, who were seen in the growth and development and pediatrics services of an urban health center in the Santa Anita district of Lima. Data collection instruments developed by the researchers, with outstanding statistical validity and high reliability, were administered. Results: Acceptable levels of knowledge about breastfeeding exceeded 95%, and favorable attitudes reached 83%; however, appropriate practices stood at 88%. Regarding knowledge gaps, 30.9% were unaware that nighttime breastfeeding stimulates milk production, and 32.4% were unaware of its protective effect against breast and ovarian cancer. Regarding attitudes, 20.4% believed that breastfeeding damages the body, while 17% believed that breastfeeding should be stopped if the baby becomes ill. In terms of practices, 30.7% did not practice on-demand breastfeeding, and 42.5% of mothers reported pain or physical discomfort during breastfeeding. Conclusions: There is a significant gap between acquired knowledge and its practical application. This suggests that previous educational interventions have maintained a predominantly theoretical approach, reflecting a lack of practical training, particularly among first-time mothers. On the other hand, although attitudes toward breastfeeding are generally favorable, they tend to weaken in the face of stressors such as aesthetic pressures, social and work demands, or episodes of infant illness.