Anna Burbridge: New mothers deserve support to overcome difficulties

EVIDENCE shows exclusive breastfeeding for six months has many advantages for baby and mother. Breastmilk gives babies all the nutrients they need for at least the first six months of life. It is a living substance and adapts to fit the needs of each baby and complements and boosts the immune system, writes Anna Burbridge

However, we live in a society in which breastfeeding is often perceived as difficult and although women “try” to breastfeed and think breast is best, formula is often seen as the norm. The report highlights the fact that some women do not get accurate breastfeeding information or enough support in the early days, and that when difficulties arise giving a bottle is often seen as the solution.

La Leche League agrees many women are often not prepared for the early days of breastfeeding and mothering.

Many have never seen anyone breastfeed and are worried about how breastfeeding will fit into their lives. Women who attend breastfeeding support groups get the chance to see other women breastfeed and talk about what life with a new baby is like and often feel better prepared when difficulties arise.

The decision to breastfeed needs to be made by parents based on good information.For exclusive breastfeeding for six months to become the norm, women need good support. Sadly, many stop breastfeeding because of early difficulties, before they experience the benefits and the pleasure of exclusively nursing a child.

For breastfeeding to become the norm we need to have information on it in schools, accurate information about the realities of parenting and support and acceptance of breastfeeding in public spaces.

• Anna Burbidge is chair of the council of directors, La Leche League GB.