Nursing mothers' social representations regarding sexualities in the breastfeeding context: a correspondence factor analysis.

Abstract

Objective: To analyze nursing mothers' social representations of sexuality in the breastfeeding context and their repercussions in sexual and reproductive health.

Method: An exploratory study grounded on the Theory of Social Representations and conducted in a Human Milk Bank from northern Brazil with 110 nursing mothers, following the Free Word Association Technique. Data were analyzed by means of Correspondence Factor Analysis in the software Tri- Deux-Mots 5.1.

Results: Sexual intercourse was the significant expression of sexualities, reflected in the representation of this phenomenon in breastfeeding, anchored in cultural gender relations; meanwhile, the search for sexual desire and pleasure connected to the ideal of romantic love arises. The bodily and daily changes inherent to this period take on an unfavorable connotation and become naturalized over time, negatively influencing nursing mothers' sexual and reproductive health.

Conclusion: Understanding sexuality/sexualities in the breastfeeding context can support Nursing and Health care models in line with the social experiences and thoughts of the different groups of nursing mothers.