Sevin Altinkaynak

1868 Problems in the Process of Weaning in Breast-Fed Babies

Background and Aim Sometimes weaning process may be problem for mothers and their babies. The study was done as descriptive in order to define the problems in the process of weaning in breastfed babies. Methods Sample of the study was consisted with 86 volunteer mothers who registered to 3 different family health center in center of Sakarya province and who have 2 years old children left the breast milk. The data were collected using a questionnaire developed by researchers. The data were analysed using a statistical packet programme. Results The mean age of the mothers was 29.52±5.49. 50.6% (n=44) of mothers were primary school graduates. 52.9% (n=46) of families have described to their economic situation as moderate. 47.1% (n=41) of the mothers 7–12 months, 27.6% of (n=24) 0–6 months, 19.7% (n=17) 13–24 months, 5.7% of (n=5) in 25 months reported weaned the baby. 73.5% (n=64) of the mothers cut the breastfeeding slowly was determined. Problems experienced by mothers at the beginning of the process of weaning were found as pain in the chest and swelling (20.7% n=18) and maternal stress, anxiety and indecision (12.6% n=11). 39% of children (n=34) crying, restlessness, irritability and a change in temperament, 12.6% (n=11) reduction in body weight gain, 8% (n=7) frequent illness, 2.3% (n=2) sleep pattern disorder were reported by their mothers. Conclusion In the study, various problems occured in children and mothers were found in the process of weaning.