BACKGROUND: Breastfeeding is associated with many benefits for both mother and child. Initiation rates are high in Sweden. Recently a slight decline is seen.

AIM: The aim of this study was to assess factors associated with discontinuation of breastfeeding during the first 4 weeks.

METHOD: A population-based longitudinal birth cohort study recruiting from 2007 to 2008 in south-western Sweden. At the first visit to the child health centre, parents were asked to complete a questionnaire. Also, the infants' height, weight, head and waist circumference were collected. Response rate was 69.2%.

RESULTS: Twenty-seven per cent of mothers had breastfeeding problems. In a multivariate analysis, there was a negative correlation between breastfeeding and use of pacifier (OR 3.72; CI 2.09-6.63), maternal smoking (OR 2.09; CI 1.08-4.05) and breastfeeding problems (OR 2.54; CI 1.73-3.71). Breastfeeding problems were correlated with poor sucking technique (OR 2.96; CI 2.14-4.07), support from maternity ward (OR 2.56; CI 2.05-3.19) and perceived poor weight gain (OR 1.37; CI 1.00-1.86).

CONCLUSION: Many mothers reported breastfeeding problems that are associated with an early cessation. This is preventable with support, but the timing is crucial. To promote breastfeeding, the support from the child health centres must be tailored with the maternal perspective in mind.

© 2011 Foundation Acta Pædiatrica