Inclusion of a virtual group in a social support network to exclusive breastfeeding after hospital discharge

Abstract

Despite the health benefits of exclusive breastfeeding to moms and their children, its early interruption is still quite common. After hospital discharge is the period when women face the most challenges, being important to strengthen breastfeeding support actions. This study aimed at unveiling the contributions of including a virtual community in a social support network to exclusive breastfeeding after hospital discharge. This qualitative study was conducted in a private Facebook group managed by health professionals using a Community-Based Participatory Research as methodological reference. The group was used to foster dialog and interaction among women based on experiences contextualized in the real world, being possible to build new interpersonal relationships and expand their support networks.