Background: Previous evaluations of the breastfeeding practice in Italy were representative just of local situations. Then we have investigated the incidence of breastfeeding in Italy along with the social and environmental factors associated with its practice. Methods: 1601 mothers, randomly recruited (1/n) as representative of the November 95 deliveries in all the Italian regions, were interviewed at times 3, 6, 9 and 12 mos after delivery by means of a phone-administered“scanner-ready” questionnaire. Statistics: chi-square test.Results: 85.3% mothers breastfed their babies. The rates of breastfeeding at the 4 time-points were 51%, 32%, 19% and 11% respectively. Maternal factors associated with breastfeeding and its duration were: 1. to have been breastfed in infancy; 2. not smoking habits; 3. information at discharge from the Neonatal Unit. Maternal anthropometrics, demographic characteristics and rooming-in practice were not associated with breastfeeding while geographic differences were shown. Pediatricians, midwives and gynaecologists were the main source of information about breastfeeding. 43% mothers declared not to have received any information on lactation. Media were mentioned as source of information only by 2% mothers. Conclusion: Breastfeeding practice shows an increasing trend in Italy. Maternal history and habits may support its duration as well as good information. This last point should be further improved.