Breastfeeding or nursing is the act of feeding breastmilk to an infant, either directly from the breast or through a pump or bottle. Exclusive breastfeeding is the most effective way to reduce infant mortality as it prevents 13% of under-five child mortality in low-income countries. According to WHO, breastfeeding has increased by more than 10%, which means 48% of infants worldwide now benefit from this healthy start in life. Improving breastfeeding rates could save over 820000 children’s lives each year. In India, only 41.8% of women initiate breastfeeding within an hour of birth, and 63.7% exclusively breastfeed during the first 6 months.
Breastfeeding rates are influenced by socio-economic status, religion, education, and support services. It is physiological, economical, and convenient as breastmilk is rich in essential fatty acids, lactose, long-chain polyunsaturated fats (LCPs), and phospholipids. It also supplies enzymes, including amylase, lipoprotein lipase, and lactoperoxidase. These act as a defence against microbes and help in digestion. While LCPs promote brain growth and reduce the risk of dyslexia and hyperactivity.Also rich in whey protein (80%), α-lactoglobulin, and lactoferrin, ensuring absorption of iron and zinc. Breastmilk ensures transfer of maternal antibody and T-lymphocytes and protects against some infectious diseases.
Breastfeeding is useful to both mother and child. Among infants, apart from nutrition, it decreases the risks of asthma, obesity, diabetes, infections, and respiratory diseases. Among mother, it decreases the risk of ovarian cancer and breast cancer.WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding upto six months,thereafter, complementery feeds started and continuing breastfeeding into the 2nd year.
According to a survey in 2019, 81% of mothers across India do not like to breastfeed in public, mainly due to a lack of hygiene and the stares of others. So, India’s Maternity Benefit(Amendement)act,2017, entitles breastfeeding mothers to creche facilities at workplaces, and there are laws in some states that require employers to provide time and facilities for breastfeeding.UNICEF/WHO , through Baby-Friendly Hospital initiative(BFHI) have recommended good health care practices that support breastfeeding and increase liklehood of optimum breastfeeding.
To appreciate mothers and ensure they get the support they need, first week of August is celebrated as WORLD BREASTFEEDING WEEK. It is celebrated in commemoration of 1990 Innocenti Decleration.