Introduction. Breastfeeding is an optimal way of feeding infants and little children. Women often discontinue breastfeeding due to ill-founded convictions, which are often a result of lack of knowledge. Aim. The purpose of this research was to compare the course of breast-feeding in view of parity. Material and methods. The research method used was an inquiry form with 40 questions, both open and closed, regarding breastfeeding. The study involved 100 women in early childbed from the Maternity Ward. Results. Problems with taking on breastfeeding occur more frequently in women who just gave birth for the first time, than in those who previously experienced childbirth. Problems with breastfeeding such as: lack of suction, problems with grasping a nipple, feeding a child at night, neonatal jaundice, and nipple pains, were not observed to be occurring more frequently in either group. Conclusions. Midwives should devote special care to all women after childbirth in order not to allow lactation problems to occur and, to increase the chances for long and optimal breastfeeding.

Key words: breastfeeding, lactation issues, pregnancy, parity.