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Breastfeeding campaign launches
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Last modified date:13 May 2008
To mark this year’s National Breastfeeding Awareness Week, the Department is encouraging young mothers from low-income backgrounds to access support that will help them to breastfeed for longer.
Breastfeeding is a major public health issue in today's society with significant inequalities in infant feeding practices. Statistics show that 76 per cent of women start breastfeeding, but for mothers under 20, it's just 51 per cent.
The Breast Buddy initiative encourages young mums to get emotional and practical support while breastfeeding by nominating a friend or family member.
Young mums who sign up will receive an information pack and a fridge magnet featuring breastfeeding helplines including the new National Breastfeeding Helpline (0844 20 909 20).
Mother and buddy will also receive texts of encouragement for the first six months. Mums can text BUDDY to 60022 to sign up to the campaign.
The benefits of breastfeeding
A decision to breastfeed, especially for the first six months of a baby's life, can have a huge impact on infant health and development. The Department recommends exclusive breastfeeding up to the age of six months, with continued breastfeeding alongside solid foods after six months.
Research indicates breastmilk gives babies all the nutrients they need for the first six months of life and helps protect them from infection and diseases such as gastro-intestinal infections, ear infections, urine infections, eczema and obesity in later childhood.
Breastfeeding provides health benefits for mothers too. It can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, breast cancer and weak bones later in life.
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