Abstract
Objective: Analyze the scientific literature on the motivations and main reasons that can generate early weaning. Bibliographic review: Breastfeeding is a process that involves interaction between mother and child, bringing a series of beneficial consequences, not only for the child's nutritional status, but also for their cognitive-emotional development. In addition, it acts in defense against infections, impacting the infant's health in the long term. And it also promotes the mother's physical and mental health. Despite all the scientific evidence confirming the superiority of breastfeeding over other ways of nurturing the child, the commitment of numerous national and international organizations and the campaigns promoted, the prevalence of breastfeeding in Brazil, especially exclusive breastfeeding, is far from the recommended. Final considerations: It is essential that health professionals are trained to guide and empower mothers, offering active support, including emotional support, providing accurate references and demystifying some taboos. Equally important are health policies aimed at providing guidance on issues that generate doubts and uncertainties during pregnancy, including the importance of exclusive breastfeeding until the baby is six months old and demonstrating the harm of early weaning.