Factors related to the pandemic period and its possible influence on the exclusive breastfeeding phase in the cities of Belem and Ananindeua– PA/Brazil

The research aimed to understand the possible factors associated with the COVID-19 pandemic that may have impaired the period of exclusive breastfeeding. Cross-sectional and anonymous study with 62 mothers from the cities of Belem and Ananindeua – PA/Brazil, using an online form.As a result, predominantly: 1/3 had completed higher education, 25 and 49 years old, single, monthly income of 1 to 2 minimum wages, did not participate in government aid programs, cesarean delivery, prenatal care performed at SUS, were still breastfeeding, 45% had symptoms of anxiety, depression or compulsive disorder, 63% of children fell ill in the last 6 months. 24% of women felt insecurity or fear of breastfeeding because of media news.The presence of professional prenatal guidance on pregnancy and COVID-19 was absent in more than 1/3 of the women, 37% did not receive professional guidance on breastfeeding during prenatal care, and 81% did not receive guidance on breastfeeding with suspicion or diagnosis of COVID-19. Of the statements heard by a family member or close person, the most frequent was: "You cannot do prenatal care or go to the hospital so as not to get COVID-19".The number of times the child became ill in the last 6 months and hospitalization of the child were correlated with the period of breastfeeding with p<0.0001 and p=0.0455, respectively. This study brings a new perspective to the findings involving maternal and child nutrition and the COVID-19 pandemic, and it is essential that more comprehensive policies are reformulated, for the training of health professionals in the context of coping with COVID-19 and for managing news available in the media.