World Breastfeeding Week:Why every breastfeeding mother needs a support system

World Breastfeeding Week, celebrated from August 1 to 7, underscores the importance of support systems for breastfeeding mothers. The theme this year is "prioritise breastfeeding, create sustainable support systems." Lactation consultant R Baby Shree of Rao Hospital emphasizes that while breastfeeding is natural, it requires skill and guidance, not just maternal instinct.

The session organized by Rao Hospital highlighted common concerns such as the false belief that a crying baby indicates insufficient milk production. "Two simple indicators, like the baby's diaper change more than six times a day and weight gain, can confirm adequate milk intake," Shree said. Dr KS Krishnasamy, a senior neonatologist & paediatrician, stresses that breastfeeding supports a baby's immunity, growth, and brain development.

Breastfeeding should continue exclusively for the first six months, followed by complementary feeding until two years or beyond. While some mothers may need breast pumps, direct breastfeeding also aids a baby's oral-motor development. Mothers should not be pressured into using expensive foods for milk production. Crucially, family support is vital; family members can ensure the mother's nutritional needs are met, avoid questioning her milk supply, and bond with the baby through kangaroo care.

Social media and formula marketing can exacerbate mothers' anxieties. The week highlights the need for support from healthcare professionals, workplaces, and society as a whole to help mothers breastfeed successfully.