Infant and Maternal Morbidity Symptoms as Predictors for the Interruption of Exclusive Breastfeeding in Lima, Peru: A Prospective Study

•IEBF was associated with morbidity symptoms only for infants ≥30 days old.•Maternal morbidity symptoms increase the likelihood of IEBF for the first 6 months.•Visits to clinics are opportunities to reinforce breastfeeding during illness.•Families need knowledge and skills on how to continue EBF, even during illness. The global prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months is 48%. This analysis examined the relationship between infant and maternal morbidity symptoms and the interruption of exclusive breastfeeding. Data from a cohort study among women living in a peri-urban community in Peru were used. Data were collected during pregnancy, birth, and the first 6 months postpartum among 179 dyads... After the first month, interruption of exclusive breastfeeding was almost twofold (adjusted odds ration [aOR] = 1.99, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.14, 3.45) more likely among infants with symptoms (e.g., diarrhea, cough) than those without. Maternal morbidity symptoms (e.g., gastrointestinal, respiratory) and breast problems were positively associated with interruption of exclusive breastfeeding throughout the first 6 months (aOR = 1.77, 95% CI: 1.11, 2.82 and aOR = 3.23, 95% CI: 1.84, 5.69, respectively). Mother–infant dyads often experience illness symptoms that are not contraindications to breastfeeding. Health professionals need to reinforce that exclusive breastfeeding should continue during illness.