The first week of August, from the 1st to the 7th, is observed globally each year as World Breastfeeding Week. This week is not just about recognizing breastfeeding; it is about supporting mothers, educating families, and encouraging society to create a better space for breastfeeding.
Feeding a baby through breastfeeding is a natural and beneficial method for their growth and health. Yet, many new mothers face difficulties and feel alone during this time. World Breastfeeding Week helps us understand these challenges and reminds us how important it is to support mothers everywhere.
WHAT IS BREASTFEEDING?
Breastfeeding means feeding a baby directly from the mother’s breast. It usually begins soon after birth. Breast milk is often called “liquid gold” because it contains everything a baby needs: food, water, protection from diseases, and love. It is free, always available, and made specially for each baby.
WHY IS BREASTFEEDING IMPORTANT?
FOR BABIES:
- Complete nutrition: Breast milk has the perfect mix of vitamins, minerals, protein, and fat.
- Stronger immunity: It helps protect babies from common sicknesses like colds, diarrhea, and infections.
- Healthy development: It supports the baby’s brain, bones, and body growth.
Less risk of future illness: Breastfed babies are less likely to get diabetes, asthma, and obesity later in life.
FOR MOTHERS:
- Faster recovery: It helps the mother’s body heal after childbirth.
- Less stress: Breastfeeding can calm the mother and baby, improving emotional bonding.
- Health protection: Mothers who breastfeed have a lower chance of getting breast or ovarian cancer.
Weight control: It helps mothers return to their pre-pregnancy weight faster.
FOR FAMILIES AND SOCIETY:
- Money saving: No need to spend on formula, bottles, or sterilizers.
- Less doctor visits: Healthier babies need fewer hospital visits.
- Better environment: No plastic waste or pollution from formula production.
WHY IS WORLD BREASTFEEDING WEEK CELEBRATED?
World Breastfeeding Week started in 1992. It was created by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) to promote the benefits of breastfeeding and help mothers across the world.
Every year, a different theme is chosen to highlight during the week..
The main aim is to:
- Raise public awareness about breastfeeding,
- Break myths and wrong beliefs,
- Encourage workplaces, families, and hospitals to support breastfeeding mothers.
Breastfeeding is a public health responsibility ,it is not just a personal decision.That is what this week helps us remind .
CHALLENGES FACED BY NEW MOTHERS
- Although breastfeeding is a natural process, many mothers find it challenging in the beginning. Many mothers face:
Pain or soreness while feeding - Lack of confidence or fear of doing it wrong
- No support at home or at work
- Embarrassment or fear of judgment in public
- Wrong advice or lack of information
These problems can make mothers feel tired, lonely, and stressed. Some may even stop breastfeeding early, even if they wanted to continue.
HOW TO SUPPORT BREASTFEEDING MOTHERS?
AT HOME:
Family members can help by doing chores or taking care of other tasks so the mother can rest and focus on the baby.
- Talk to her kindly. Kind and supportive words can really help a mother feel better.
IN HOSPITALS: - Nurses and doctors should help mothers start breastfeeding soon after birth.
- Hospitals should teach correct positions and help with any difficulties.
AT WORK: - Give enough maternity leave.
- Provide them with a clean and private space for pumping milk.
- Mothers need to take a short breaks to feed or express milk.
IN PUBLIC: - Support the idea of nursing rooms in parks, malls, and bus stands.
- Never shame a mother for feeding her baby in public.
KAIGO HOME HEALTH CARE, TRIVANDRUM: SUPPORTING MOTHERS WITH CARE
In Trivandrum, Kaigo Home Health Care has been a helping hand to many new mothers. They understand that not every family can visit the hospital often, especially during the early days after delivery.
Kaigo also provides home nursing care mainly for newborns and mothers. Their services include:
- Breastfeeding help and education
- Support for newborn hygiene and health
- Postnatal care for mothers
- Emotional care and family guidance
By sending trained nurses to your doorstep, Kaigo ensures that mothers feel safe, supported, and relaxed. This kind of care makes it easier for mothers to continue breastfeeding and take care of their babies confidently.
World Breastfeeding Week is for everyone. It teaches us to value the power of breast milk and the strength of a mother’s love. But more importantly, it tells us that mothers should never be left alone on this journey.
Let us come together to build a world where every mother gets the knowledge, comfort, and space she needs to breastfeed her child. Whether it’s giving her a break at home, offering help in the office, or simply not judging her in public — every small action counts.