The first week in August is World Breastfeeding Week, with the aim of highlighting the huge benefits that breastfeeding can bring to babies as well as a focus on maternal health, good nutrition, poverty reduction and food security.
In the UK, more than 73% of mothers start breastfeeding. Breastfeeding has long-term benefits for babies, lasting right into adulthood.
Any amount of breast milk has a positive effect. The longer you breastfeed, the longer the protection lasts and the greater the benefits.
Breastfeeding reduces a baby’s risk of:
- Infections, with fewer visits to hospital as a result.
- Diarrhoea and vomiting, with fewer visits to hospital as a result.
- Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
- Childhood leukaemia.
- Type 2 diabetes.
- Cardiovascular disease in adulthood.
Emily Exell, infant feeding coordinator, said: “At ULHT we are working towards achieving accreditation by Unicef UK Baby Friendly Initiative. Baby Friendly Initiative supports health professionals to provide sensitive and effective care, enabling mothers to make an informed choice about feeding, get breastfeeding off to a good start and overcome any challenges.’
Speak to your midwife if you require any further information.