[Breastfeeding in Spain and the factors related to its establishment and maintenance: LAyDI Study (PAPenRed)]

To find out actual statistics on breastfeeding in Spain, as well as sociocultural and perinatal factors that affect its initiation and maintenance.

Prospective, multicentre, longitudinal, nationwide study (XXX study). SITE: Primary care paediatricians' office.

Cohort of newborns born between April 2017 and March 2018 in Spain who were followed up to two years of age in 8 visits.

Rates of different types of breastfeeding were analysed at each visit and variables related to gestation, delivery, neonatal period, social, economic and biological variables were also analysed.

Initial sample of 1946 (50.1% male). 90.7% decided to initiate breastfeeding at birth. Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) was 66.4% at 15days and 35.2% at 6months. Any type of breastfeeding (total breastfeeding [TBF]) at 6months was 61.7%. Median survival from TBF was 6.0months (95%CI: 6.0-6.1). Variables related to EBF at 15days: previous children, mother's level of education, absence of illness during pregnancy, no separation of mother and child at birth, no dummy use, no nipple problems, and time of decision to breastfeed. Variables related to longer duration of TBF: relationship of parents older than 5years, no dummy use, co-sleeping at one month of life, deciding to breastfeed before pregnancy, receiving information on breastfeeding during pregnancy and using support from associations.

Early abandonment of breastfeeding is a major problem in Western societies. There are factors that can be worked on to improve outcomes.