The authors analyzed different factors than can influence the mother's decision to breastfeed, the duration of breastfeeding and the main weaning reasons. Articles published from 1990 to 2004 in the databases Lilacs, Medline, Scielo and Bireme were selected, using the key-words weaning and risk factors. Some factors, such as early maternity, low maternal education and socioeconomic class, parity, attention of health professionals in prenatal care and the need to work are frequently considered determinants of early weaning. However, other factors such as family support, favorable workplace conditions and a positive previous breastfeeding experience seem to favor the mother's decision to breastfeed. Despite the relevance of the factors mentioned above, cultural aspects and the mother's life history are the most important factors determining the decision to breastfeed and the time to wean.
breast feeding; weaning; risk factors