Background: Worldwide, inadequate rate of exclusive breastfeeding result from many alternative factors such as fetal,
maternal or socio-cultural factors. Aim: To assess factors associated with cessation of exclusive breastfeeding among
lactating mothers. Study design: A descriptive cross-sectional design was utilized in this study. Study subjects: A
convenient sample of 206 women who stopped exclusive breastfeeding and attended at Health Unit in Diarb Negm city,
Sharkia, Egypt. A structured interview questionnaire was utilized to assess socio- demographic data and factors associated
with cessation of exclusive breastfeeding. Results: The study findings revealed that breast factors presented more than
three-quarters of maternal factors and more than two-thirds of infantile factors were related to breastfeeding process that
attributed to cessation of exclusive breastfeeding among mothers. Conclusion: The study question was answered where;
the factors associated with cessation of exclusive breastfeeding were maternal and infantile factors. The most maternal
factor was breast factor while the most infantile factor was unsatisfactory infant weight gain. Recommendation:
Implementation of antenatal educational programs regarding importance of exclusive breast breastfeeding.