With World Breastfeeding Week having just passed, South Africa joins the global effort to highlight the profound benefits of breastfeeding for both mothers and their infants. Running from August 1–7, this initiative sheds light on the significant health advantages breastfeeding offers and highlights the crucial need for comprehensive support systems for new mothers.
Breastfeeding is widely acknowledged for providing essential nutrients, boosting the immune system, and reducing the risk of infections and allergies. Yet, many mothers face hurdles such as latching difficulties, sore nipples, and concerns about milk supply. According to Dr Khungelwa Mrwebi of Life Healthcare, these challenges are often manageable with the right assistance. She notes that initial breastfeeding problems can stem from issues like baby tongue tie or maternal discomfort, making it vital for mothers to seek help from healthcare providers and lactation consultants.
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Rita van Dyk, a nursing specialist in midwifery at Life Healthcare, emphasises the importance of early initiation of breastfeeding. She points out that the sooner a baby starts breastfeeding, the better. This early and continuous practice not only supports the baby’s development but also helps overcome initial challenges. In cases where babies are in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), mothers must start expressing milk as soon as possible to provide colostrum, the vital first milk.
While some medical conditions or medications may prevent direct breastfeeding, Mrwebi highlights the availability of alternatives such as donor breast milk banks. For mothers unable to breastfeed directly, pumping and bottle-feeding breast milk are viable options, with donor breast milk serving as a lifesaving resource for those in need.
Support in the workplace is another critical aspect. Mrwebi advocates for employers to facilitate breastfeeding by providing private spaces for expressing milk and allowing time for it. She suggests a private area with a comfortable chair, a place to wash hands, and a small refrigerator or cooling bag for milk can make a significant difference. This support helps mothers maintain their breastfeeding routine even after returning to work.
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Van Dyk underscores the importance of rooming-in, where the baby stays in the same room as the mother. This practice helps mothers recognise feeding cues and fosters a closer bond. She emphasises that responsive feeding, where the baby is fed on demand, is crucial. This approach, supported by the Mother-Baby Friendly Initiative, ensures that the baby receives only breast milk without any supplementary water or formula.
Cultural and social factors also play a significant role in breastfeeding practices. Mrwebi notes that societal expectations and traditional beliefs can influence how breastfeeding is perceived and practised. Family advice, medical conditions, and societal attitudes all impact breastfeeding decisions. Van Dyk adds that societal attitudes towards breastfeeding have evolved, with a growing recognition of its importance, although challenges remain.
As South Africa celebrates World Breastfeeding Week, it is imperative to provide mothers with the necessary support and information to ensure the best start to life for their infants. By addressing the challenges and reinforcing the benefits, the goal is to create an environment where breastfeeding can thrive, offering every baby the healthiest beginning possible.
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