The aim of the study was to characterize and to analyse mothers' perception of the breastfeeding practice among women who breastfed their children until six months of age. A quantitative-qualitative study was conducted. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and consultation to records of 101 mothers assisted by interdisciplinary program on breastfeeding promotion. The comprehensive analysis of the speeches was based on the Content Analysis and the Social Representation Theory was used as methodological reference. The breastfeeding experience representations were grouped in five categories such as: (1) "Fulfillment/Satisfaction", (2) "Attachment", (3) "Growth/Health", (4) "Fear of weaning", (5) "Patience". The mothers reported more frequently situations related to their fulfillment and personal satisfaction. It is suggested that the mothers' perceptions about the breastfeeding practice was not focused on the child. The study may provide a better understanding of the breastfeeding phenomenon on the women-mother-nurturer perception, enabling efficient reformulation of breastfeeding promotion activities.
breastfeeding; mother-child relations; qualitative research; health promotion
