Global breastfeeding rates rise, with potential for further growth

Globally, more mothers are breastfeeding their infants, with exclusive breastfeeding in the first six months now exceeding 47%, up from around 37% in 2012. This trend is being highlighted during World Breastfeeding Week, observed from August 1 to 7.

The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes breastfeeding as a simple yet highly effective method for protecting child health. It provides essential nutrients, boosts the immune system, and guards against serious illnesses, while also supporting cognitive development. Mothers also benefit, experiencing a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers, as well as type 2 diabetes. Increased breastfeeding promotion could prevent nearly 400,000 child deaths and approximately 140,000 maternal deaths annually.

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Our investigation suggests that colostrum - the first, highly concentrated milk after birth - is usually sufficient to meet the newborn's needs.

While the WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by continued breastfeeding up to two years or beyond, national guidelines can vary. Germany's national guideline suggests a total breastfeeding duration of at least twelve months for full-term infants.

A recent study from Sapienza University in Rome investigated simple interventions to increase breastfeeding rates. The research, published in "The Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine," identified three common myths that can undermine breastfeeding success. One myth is that mothers produce too little milk in the early days, leading to premature supplementation with infant formula. Researchers suggest that colostrum, the first milk produced after birth, is typically sufficient for newborns' needs. Another finding challenges the notion that pacifier use in the early weeks negatively impacts breastfeeding duration or exclusivity.

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The use of a pacifier neither shortens the duration of breastfeeding nor exclusive breastfeeding.