Introduction: Breastfeeding is crucial for the health and development of the child, as well as for the health of the mother. Despite its numerous benefits, many mothers face challenges with breastfeeding, particularly in the first months after giving birth. Challenges such as sore nipples, latching challenges, and the feeling of not having enough milk can negatively affect the duration of breastfeeding. Aim: The aim of the master's thesis was to investigate the most common challenges mothers face in breastfeeding during the first six months after the birth of a child and to examine the role of health personnel and the supportive environment in overcoming these challenges. Methods: The research was based on quantitative and qualitative work methods. We used a questionnaire filled out by 90 mothers of children up to six months old. Results: Most often, mothers faced challenges such as the child's sleepiness during breastfeeding, excessive milk flow, and feelings of burden and worry about the amount of milk. Mothers who received support from partners and the wider environment had fewer challenges. The support of visiting nurses played a very important role in the success of breastfeeding. Mothers of babies two months old or younger face more challenges with breastfeeding. Primiparous women, unlike multiparous women, have challenges with swollen breasts with a lot of milk. Mothers who gave birth vaginally and those who had skin-to-skin contact with their baby for at least an hour after delivery reported fewer breastfeeding problems. Discussion and conclusion: The research showed that the success of breastfeeding is significantly influenced by factors such as the age of the child, the number of children, skin-to-skin contact after the birth of the child, the type of delivery and various forms of support. Most challenges arise in the first weeks after childbirth, especially for primiparous mothers and mothers after caesarean section, where correct attachment, skin-to-skin contact, and support from the partner and health professionals play a key role. Comprehensive and coordinated support from medical staff, partners and the wider social environment can significantly contribute to successful and longer breastfeeding.
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