Breastfeeding gives mothers,babies a strong start

Media Release
25 July 2007
For immediate release

Breastfeeding gives mothers and babies a strong start

This year World Breastfeeding week (1 – 7 August) focuses on the importance of breastfeeding babies within the first hour after birth. Plunket believes this is an important message for mothers, whānau and families because breastfeeding provides young babies with the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development.

Breastfeeding so close to birth provides babies with colostrum, the first breast milk that contains concentrated antibodies and nutrients designed to protect and nourish them.

Breastfeeding gives babies a great start in life and Plunket, along with other major health organisations, recommends that babies are breastfeed for at least the first six months. After six months other foods can be added to a baby's diet, but breast milk remains the ideal milk drink for children up to two years and beyond.

Support is so important
Plunket Clinical Advisor Allison Jamieson, points out that the onus is not just on mothers, it is essential that mothers get the support they need from those around them. "Providing a supportive environment is one of the most important factors in mothers breastfeeding and continuing to do so. All of society, especially partners, families, friends and employers play an important role in seeing this happens. Each one of us can find a way to play our part."

According to Plunket's latest breastfeeding statistics 82 per cent of newborns are getting at least some breast milk up to the age of 6 weeks, this equates to 4 out of every 5 babies, which is really positive news for mothers and newborns. However, at around 6 months this figure lowers to 60 per cent. That means as a society there are many things we can still do to support families to give the best to their children.

Breast is best
"Planning ahead and expecting to breastfeed is the best way to help ensure a good start for baby." says Allison, "Breastfeeding provides a fantastic means for mother and baby to get to know each other, bond and build a relationship."

There are many benefits of breastfeeding:
• Breast milk is the original fast food
• Breast milk is easily digested, which means that breast fed babies are less likely to suffer from constipation, diarrhoea or nappy rash
• it is free, safe, environmentally friendly and ready for use at a moment's notice
• The antibodies in breast milk help fight infections like colds, chickenpox and measles
• Breast milk can protect your baby against some infections like gastroenteritis (tummy bug), middle ear infections and reduces the risk of allergies.

For support, information or advice about breastfeeding your baby parents can contact their local Plunket Nurse or call PlunketLine 0800 933 922 7am to midnight, 7 days a week.

ENDS

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