World

Breastfeeding Week 

As a healthcare professional you are a nursing mother’s primary source for expertise on initiation, positioning, and routine. Some new mothers experience problems with infant sucking or latching on, which can cause pain or discomfort during breastfeeding; others believe that they do not produce enough milk; some encounter medical problems, or choose to return to work early^{1, 4}. When mothers and parents need help, you can help them find the best infant feeding solution.

Key to success is the ability to relax. Milk volume and flow are closely linked to mother’s psychological wellbeing and stress levels^6-8. In a study carried out by Philips Avent, mothers expressed significantly more milk after 10–15 minutes of doing a breathing exercise or listening to music⁹. In addition, a quiet location away from daily distractions or prying eyes can help. Today, many family-friendly venues provide dedicated spaces where a mother can breastfeed her baby or express milk in a calm relaxing environment.

Returning to work can be another barrier. Nearly one in five mothers in the United States⁴ and one in ten mothers in Europe¹ stop breastfeeding upon returning to work. These mothers must be supported to find appropriate infant feeding solutions to help express milk during the workday. Mothers can ask for a dedicated place to breastfeed or express breast milk and may seek support from their healthcare professional in doing so.

Educational materials to support infant feeding are available along with tips and instructions for proper lactation, expressing, and comfort.

Your valued opinion can make a difference. Remember, women asking for support or having direct access to healthcare professionals are more likely to continue to breastfeed for a longer period of time⁴.