The World Breastfeeding Week is August 1-9, 2019. This year’s slogan is:
Empower Parents, Enable Breastfeeding
Sometimes there are circumstances that prevent a mother or baby from participating in breastfeeding. This is not to look down upon these families but to shine a light on the benefits of breastfeeding so those with optimal conditions elect to breastfeed.
You can pledge at WABA here.
Why is breastfeeding important
WABA reports on their website that breastfeeding prevents:
- 20,000 maternal deaths annually
- 823,000 child deaths annually
- $302 billion in economic losses annually
Based on a recent study published in Health Policy and Planning (source) shared:
“The total annual global economic losses are estimated to be between US$257 billion and US$341 billion, or between 0.37% and 0.70% of global gross national income.”
The above is mind-blowing.
What does breastfeeding have to do with midwifery
American College of Nurse Midwives, midwives increase your chances of having a positive start to breastfeeding. Starting off on the right note is crucial for both baby and mom. Through the care and education delivered by midwives, the mom’s under their care have a higher chance of breastfeeding their baby.
Looking for a midwife? Find a midwife near you.
How do we increase breastfeeding
It starts at conception, at least the education part does. This is why finding a midwife is crucial as they will spend the time required to discuss all of the stages of motherhood and not just everything up until the delivery.
WHO and UNICEF recommend:
- Early initiation of breastfeeding within 1 hour of birth.
- Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life.
- Continued breastfeeding up to 2 years of age or beyond, with the introduction of nutritionally adequate and safe complementary (solid) foods at 6 months.