Better support needed for breastfeeding mothers

Even though World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) has concluded, the conversations and insights it fostered continue to resonate.

This year's theme, “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All”, serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of supporting breastfeeding across all communities.

It highlights the need to address disparities in breastfeeding support, acknowledging the significant health and developmental benefits it offers infants and mothers. Despite the week having ended, the imperative to ensure every mother, regardless of her circumstances, has access to the necessary resources and support remains.

Healthcare professionals play a critical role in supporting breastfeeding mothers, as mothers often rely on their advice and subsequently decide to continue breastfeeding or not.

However, they often face challenges that hinder their ability to provide optimal care. These challenges include a need for up-to-date training in lactation management and appropriate counselling to mothers, time constraints during consultations, and cultural barriers.

Moreover, the availability of lactation consultants or breastfeeding counsellors is limited. More often, healthcare professionals don’t know to where or whom they can refer the struggling breastfeeding mothers, which can prevent mothers from receiving the specialised help they need.

Ongoing professional development is essential in overcoming these challenges. By participating in training programs and staying informed about the latest and appropriate breastfeeding practices, healthcare workers can better-support mothers.

Additionally, hospitals that adhere to the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) guidelines, a global program by WHO and UNICEF, have been shown to have higher breastfeeding initiation and continuation rates, underscoring the effectiveness of comprehensive support systems.

Family support is important

The support breastfeeding mothers receive from their family and community plays a significant role in their breastfeeding journey. Partners, in particular, can provide crucial emotional and practical support, such as helping with household tasks and offering encouragement.

Extended family members and friends can also contribute by assisting with childcare, running errands, and offering reassurance.

Communities, too, have a vital role in supporting breastfeeding mothers. Public awareness campaigns, breastfeeding-friendly spaces, and local support groups can create an environment that normalises breastfeeding and makes mothers feel supported.

Legal protections for breastfeeding mothers in public spaces and workplaces are also essential in fostering a supportive atmosphere.

Returning to work is a significant hurdle for many breastfeeding mothers. Mothers may struggle to continue breastfeeding without adequate support, such as private spaces for expressing milk or flexible work schedules.

Employers can make a difference by implementing breastfeeding-friendly policies, which support mothers and benefit the workplace by increasing employee satisfaction and retention.

One of the emerging trends in breastfeeding support is the use of telehealth services. Telehealth offers a convenient way for mothers to access lactation consultants and other support services, regardless of their location.

This is particularly beneficial for mothers in remote areas or those who face mobility challenges. Virtual consultations can provide the same level of expert advice and support as in-person visits, making it easier for mothers to navigate their breastfeeding journey.

Despite the progress made in promoting breastfeeding, significant disparities in support still exist. Socioeconomic factors, geographical location, and cultural stigmas often influence these disparities. For example, mothers in rural or low-income areas may have less access to breastfeeding support services, while cultural attitudes towards breastfeeding in public can vary widely.

To address these disparities, targeted interventions are necessary. This includes expanding access and increased referral to lactation consultants or breastfeeding counsellors, improving training for healthcare professionals, and promoting public awareness campaigns that challenge cultural stigmas.

Employers and policymakers must also work together to create supportive environments for breastfeeding mothers in all settings.

Technology can play a crucial role in bridging the gaps in breastfeeding support. In addition to telehealth services, mobile apps and online platforms can provide mothers with access to breastfeeding information, virtual support groups, and tracking tools. These resources can empower mothers by providing them with the knowledge and support they need to overcome challenges and continue breastfeeding.

The power of shared experiences

At the heart of breastfeeding support are the personal stories of mothers who have navigated breastfeeding challenges. These stories highlight many mothers’ resilience, determination, and creativity in their breastfeeding journey. For some, external support from healthcare professionals, family members, and community groups has been instrumental in their success.

One mother shared how a lack of support from her workplace initially made it difficult for her to continue breastfeeding. However, after advocating for herself and receiving support from a lactation consultant, she was able to continue breastfeeding for much longer than she had anticipated.

Another mother spoke about the importance of community support, emphasising how a local breastfeeding group, The Breastfeeding Advocates Network (TBAN), became a source of strength and encouragement during challenging times.

World Breastfeeding Week 2024 is a call to action for healthcare professionals, families, communities, and employers to unite in supporting breastfeeding mothers.

By working together to address the disparities in breastfeeding support, we can ensure every mother has the resources and encouragement she needs to give her child the best possible start in life.