Weaning process in breastfeeding mothers in Santiago in 2022

Abstract

Introduction: Weaning is a process about which little information is available regarding how mothers carry it out, whether with professional or family support, or independently. It is important to understand the process in order to generate reliable sources of information for mothers, who need the necessary resources to know when to seek professional help and, ultimately, to collaborate in the promotion of breastfeeding. Objective: To describe how mothers living in Chile who have finished breastfeeding between August 2020 and the first half of 2022 carry out the weaning process. Methodology: Descriptive study with a qualitative approach and narrative design. Results: According to the interviewees, the main reasons for starting weaning are maternal fatigue, new pregnancy, and pain. Most did so gradually, accompanied by a strategy of not offering-not denying and separating feedings. Discussion: The way in which the weaning process is carried out, as reported by the interviewees, coincides with the literature, since it is one of the first milestones of grief for the person, it is important to be supportive and gradual, avoiding a traumatic experience for the child. Conclusions: Weaning is mainly carried out based on intuition and information found on social media, therefore, there is a lack of knowledge about the causes and consequences of the process. For this reason, it is essential to inform and educate society about them.