Invest in Breastfeeding, Invest in the Future

World Breastfeeding Week 2025 is here,and at Mother & Child Hospital, we’re proud to join the global call to action. Held annually from August 1st to 7th, this week highlights the life-changing benefits of breastfeeding for mothers, babies, and society at large.

🤱 Why Breastfeeding Matters (According to WHO, UNICEF)

• Infant health: Exclusive breastfeeding reduces risks of infections, diarrhea, SIDS, asthma, obesity, and type 2 diabetes , ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and postpartum depression.
• Environmental impact: Breastfeeding is a zero‑waste, zero‑carbon practice ,unlike formula feeding, which substantially contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and plastic waste. Researchers estimate global formula production emits over 110,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually, and breastfeeding could help prevent ~600,000 infant deaths every year

Breastfeeding success often depends more on supportive environments than individual effort. Universal access to trained lactation counseling, peer support, and breastfeeding-friendly workplaces and hospitals strengthens outcomes significantly

At Mother & Child Hospital, we champion the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI), following WHO/UNICEF’s “Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding” ,encouraging immediate skin-to-skin contact, rooming-in, and ongoing support for mothers postpartum

💬 Real Stories, Real Impact

During sessions hosted in central India, Dr. Surabhi Sangwai highlighted how breastfeeding not only ensures infant wellbeing but also reduces environmental harm. Her lactation center provides evidence-based counseling across urban and rural communities, helping mothers overcome stigma and misinformation

The rise in digital peer counseling from programs like the WIC in the United States and Bangladesh shows impressive gains in breastfeeding duration ,demonstrating social support’s real power

🧠 Practical Tips for New Moms and Families

1. Start early: Initiate breastfeeding within the first hour of birth
2. Aim for exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months (with Vitamin D only)
3. Feed on demand, watching for feeding cues like rooting or restlessness
4. Use correct latch technique, with attention to comfort and proper alignment
5. Use a pump when needed, especially to extend breastfeeding beyond early weeks
6. Seek help early if experiencing pain, low supply, or logistical challenges

 Final Thoughts: Investing Today for a Healthier Tomorrow

Breastfeeding is far more than nutrition ,it’s an investment in health equity, environmental stewardship, and gender justice. By supporting mothers from household to workplace to health facility, we not only give each child a stronger start,but also build more resilient communities and a healthier planet

Join us from August 1–7 in celebrating World Breastfeeding Week. Together, let’s empower every mother with support, respect, and the tools she needs to nourish the next generation.

For appointments with a lactation counselor, breastfeeding classes, or support group sessions, call 0722570363 or visit our Maternity Services Department.

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