Mothers 'need breastfeeding support'

International Federation of Gynecology and ObstetricsCustom Search Home About FIGO Our work News Our member associations Congress & events Publications
You are here: Home > Mothers 'need breastfeeding support'Mothers 'need breastfeeding support'
Tuesday, 28th April 2009
Post-natal preparation is crucial to help mothers understand why breastfeeding is beneficial for their baby's health, it has been suggested.

Sarah Montagu, of the UK-based Association of Radical Midwives, claimed support from peers is necessary to encourage good habits among new mothers.

"I think one of the problems is we are not a breastfeeding culture, so often first time mums haven't seen anyone breastfeeding," she commented.

"Peer support is good because it means people can have support from mothers who have breastfed to help them get the hang of it as soon as it is possible."

Ms Montagu said that as with any new skill, mothers need to learn how to breastfeed in order to embrace it.

The UK-conducted Infant Feeding Survey 2005 discovered that the highest incidences of breastfeeding were found among mothers from managerial and professional occupations, those with the highest educational levels, over-30s and first time mothers.