The following paper presents the results of an exploratory-descriptive research, applying a qualitative approach. The main goal was to understand the perceptions of women in puerperium concerning the factors that influence breast feeding. The study has been carried out in a university hospital. Ten women in immediate puerperium participated. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews, being content analysis the analytical procedure adopted. The results pointed out categories related to biological and cultural factors. The research has reinforced the importance of knowing the main aspects that interfere with breast feeding and, thus, enabling health professionals applying new strategies in the construction of actions of health education, valuing the many dimensions that compose this experience.
Women's health; Breast feeding; Postpartum period