Being baby friendly: evidence-based breastfeeding support

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Maternal and Child Health
• Health Promotion

Background:

• Breastfeeding offers significant health benefits for both mothers and infants.
• Historically low breastfeeding rates in the UK, particularly among socially disadvantaged young women.
• Despite some increases in initiation, exclusive breastfeeding and continuation rates to six months lag behind comparable countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review effective and cost-effective strategies to support women, especially low-income groups, in making informed choices about breastfeeding.
• To identify methods for overcoming barriers to establishing and maintaining breastfeeding.
• To examine the role of the Unicef Baby Friendly Initiative in promoting breastfeeding and fostering a baby-friendly environment.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of evidence on breastfeeding support strategies.
• Analysis of the development and impact of the Unicef Baby Friendly Initiative.
• Exploration of the roles, responsibilities, challenges, and opportunities for clinicians in promoting breastfeeding.

Main Results:

• Evidence supports various strategies for improving breastfeeding initiation, exclusivity, and duration.
• The Unicef Baby Friendly Initiative has demonstrated positive impacts on breastfeeding practices.
• Clinicians play a crucial role in creating supportive environments for breastfeeding mothers.

Conclusions:

• Targeted strategies are needed to address low breastfeeding rates, particularly in vulnerable populations.
• The Baby Friendly Initiative offers a framework for effective breastfeeding support.
• Healthcare professionals are key to promoting a culture that supports and sustains breastfeeding.