Why breastfeeding matters

Breastfeeding is more than just feeding; it is nature’s best gift for both mother and child. The World Health Organisation (WHO) notes that scaling up breastfeeding could save over 820,000 young lives every year, yet only about 40% of infants under six months are exclusively breastfed worldwide.

Benefits of breastfeeding for Babies

Perfect Nutrition: Breast milk contains the exact nutrients babies need, which helps strengthen their immune system.

Protection from Diseases: It helps prevent diarrhoea and pneumonia (the leading killers of children under five).

Healthy Growth: Breastfed children have lower risks of obesity, asthma, and diabetes later in life.

Survival Boost: Exclusive breastfeeding for six months could prevent hundreds of thousands of child deaths annually.

Benefits of breastfeeding for Mothers

Faster Recovery: Breastfeeding promotes uterine healing and helps burn extra calories after birth.

Emotional Well-being: It reduces stress, improves bonding, and lowers the risk of postpartum depression.

Long-term Health: Research has shown that breastfeeding lowers the risks of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.

Saving Lives: Globally, breastfeeding could prevent 20,000 maternal deaths each year.

Beyond Health: A Global Investment

Every $1 invested in breastfeeding support returns $35 in better health and productivity. Supporting mothers to breastfeed is not just a family choice; it is a public health priority.

WHO Recommendation

Start breastfeeding within the first hour after birth

Exclusively breastfeed for 6 months

Continue breastfeeding up to 2 years and beyond, alongside nutritious foods

Conclusion

Breastfeeding is the simplest, most powerful step towards healthier mothers, healthier children, and a healthier world. Supporting breastfeeding means investing in life.