MESSAGE LIBRARY:

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding in emergencies

Mothers, even malnourished mothers, can still breastfeed even under the stressful conditions of emergencies.

Why regular breastfeeding is important

Breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival. Breastmilk contains everything a child needs to develop.  It is recommended that:

• mothers initiate breastfeeding within one hour of birth;

• infants should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life to achieve optimal growth, development and health;

• and thereafter, to meet their evolving nutritional requirements, infants should receive nutritionally adequate and safe complementary foods, while continuing to be breastfed; and

• breastfeeding should continue for up to two years or beyond.

Breastfeeding protects infants from childhood illnesses and has long-term benefits for the child. Breastfeeding also benefits mothers. The more you breastfeed, the more milk your body will produce. If you feel like your baby is hungry, breastfeeding him/her more frequently will ensure you produce more milk."

Why is bonding important?

Breastfeeding can help mothers bond with their babies.  Breastfeeding makes your baby feel safe and loved, helps the mother to deal better with stress and helps the mother to love her baby.

Risks of not breastfeeding

If you do not breastfeed your baby they could suffer from infections and malnutrition which will affect their chances of survival. The most important thing you can do to protect the health of your baby is to breastfeed him/her.

How much milk should be given?

It is recommended that babies initiate breastfeeding within the first hour of birth and be exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months of life – meaning no other foods or liquids are provided, including water.

Infants should be breastfed on demand – that is as often as the child wants, day and night.  No bottles, teats or pacifiers should be used.

From the age of 6 months, children should begin eating safe and adequate complementary foods while continuing to breastfeed for up to 2 years and beyond.

Introducing new foods to your baby.

Once your baby is 6 months old you should feed them nutritious foods (contextualise message with local grains, fruits, vegetables, and animal source foods) two to three times a day in addition to breastfeeding. At nine months you should feed them three to four times a day. Continue breastfeeding until your baby is at least 2 years old.

It is recommended that:

- breastfeeding should not be decreased when starting on solids;

- food should be given with a spoon or cup, not in a bottle;

- food should be clean and safe; and

- ample time is needed for young children to learn to eat solid foods."

Types of complementary food you can feed your baby

As your child grows you can introduce other types of food such as [contextualise using local nutritious foods].

Breastfeeding when babies are sick?

You should continue breastfeeding when they are sick because your milk contains nutrients that helps fight illness and will help your baby to get better. Sick babies should be treated as quickly as possible at a health faciility if you spot any danger signs include feeding problems, or if the newborn has reduced activity, difficult breathing, a fever, fits or convulsions, or feels cold. Your nearest facility is [insert details].

The importance of breastfeeding to tackle pneumonia

A breastfed child who has a cough or cold may have difficulty breastfeeding. Since breastfeeding helps to fight the illness and is important for the child's growth, the mother should continue to breastfeed often. If a child cannot suckle, the breastmilk can be expressed into a clean cup and the child can then be fed from the cup.

Availability of counselling

Breastfeeding women can get help and advice on breastfeeding and related issues at [insert info].

REFERENCES

For more information on this topic, we recommend you read the following references.

World Health Organization (2022). Breastfeeding.
https://www.who.int/health-topics/breastfeeding

World Health Organization (2022). Fact sheets/Detail/Newborns: improving survival and well-being.
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/newborns-reducing-mortality

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