Danaia Kraner
Ginekološko-porodniški oddelek, Splošna bolnišnica Celje, Celje, Slovenija

Cvetka Skale
IBCLC Ginekološko-porodniški oddelek, Splošna bolnišnica Celje, Celje, Slovenija in Fakulteta za zdravstvene vede v Celju

Boris Miha Kaučič
Zavod za usposabljanje, delo in varstvo dr. Marijana Borštnarja Dornava, Slovenija in Fakulteta za zdravstvene vede v Celju

Abstract

Introduction: The impact of breastfeeding is undoubtedly exceptional for the nutrition of children today. Several factors influence the establishment of breastfeeding, including parental participation in the programme ‘Preparation for childbirth and parenthood’. The purpose of this research was to determine which factors influence the establishment of breastfeeding in the maternity hospital. Method: The research was based on a quantitative descriptive research method using a survey technique. A sample of 90 breastfeeding mothers in 3 maternity hospitals in Slovenia was determined. 82% questionnaires were filled in correctly. Results: Just over half of the mothers (56 %) decided to breastfeed on their own and 91 % of the mothers decided to breastfeed due to the benefits for both the mother and the child. 68% of the mothers successfully breastfed their newborns within 30 minutes of giving birth. Interestingly, 87 % of these mothers received help from a nurse. Factors that affect the establishment of breastfeeding are: first skin contact and first breastfeeding, roomingin, the decision of mothers to breastfeed before childbirth, the method of delivery, familiarizing mothers with the benefits of breastfeeding, and others. Discussion and conclusion: The study has shown that mothers are aware of the advantages of breastfeeding for themselves and for their newborns. According to the results, it can be concluded that the mothers trust the nurses. They believe the nurses are able to provide adequate consult if problems with breastfeeding arise.

Key words: breastfeeding, skin contact, establishment of breastfeeding, first breastfeed, nurse