This week is Breastfeeding Awareness Week (21-27 June) and NHS Suffolk is encouraging mothers to practice breastfeeding and to stay alert to the many health benefits to both mother and baby.

Breastfeeding is a completely natural way to feed your baby and there is no doubt  that breast milk is the best form of nutrition for babies as it has the perfect combination of proteins, vitamins, fats, carbohydrate and fluids that new-born babies require and it is recommended that babies are fed only by breast milk in the first six months of their life. You can also use breast pumps if you prefer, guides at babygoss can help you tremendously in this regard.

On average, breastfed babies have fewer infections, and in particular they suffer less diarrhoea and vomiting, chest infections and ear infections. There is also evidence to suggest that children who have been breastfed are less inclined to suffer from health problems such as obesity, high blood pressure or cholesterol.

However, it is not only your baby that benefits from breastfeeding – as a mother there are health benefits too, with many studies indicating that women who breastfeed are less likely to suffer from breast cancer, ovarian cancer or postnatal depression.
Plus, its free and a much more convenient method of feeding your baby!

Says Michael Hattrell, NHS Suffolk Health Improvement Manager

“It’s important that new mothers are aware of the benefits of breastfeeding. Not only does it give the baby a great start in life it also helps the bonding process between mother and baby.  And new mothers shouldn’t  be embarrassed about breastfeeding in public – it’s completely natural, much more convenient and free!”

·        In the East of England in 2009/10, 72.2% of mothers started breastfeeding their newborn babies in hospitals compared to 68.5% in 2006/7

·        44.9% of mothers were still breastfeeding  at six to eight weeks old in January- March 2010, compared to 43.8% in October – December 2009

You can find out more about breastfeeding by visiting www.nhs.uk www.nhs.uk/start4life, or talk to you Health Visitor or Midwife, or call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212.

Issued by the NHS Suffolk Communications Team on 01473 770014
For more information about NHS Suffolk visit Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust