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World Breastfeeding Week 2021

World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) is held every year to encourage breastfeeding and spread awareness of the benefits for both mothers and babies. The theme for 2021 is Protect breastfeeding - a shared responsibility. Aiming to create an environment that supports breastfeeding in health systems, workplaces and communities of all levels.


Breastfeeding & COVID-19

With the impact of COVID -19 worldwide, there has been a significant impact on the number of new mothers breastfeeding. With online media and businesses pushing false information around the spread of the virus, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has seen greater disruptions to the amount of mothers breastfeeding with fears that it will transmit COVID-19. 

Not only does the WHO support breastfeeding during this time, but so too does UNICEF and the Australian Department of Health. The WHO states that even if a woman is confirmed or suspected to have COVID-19, they can still safely breastfeed.* So we wanted to take this opportunity to remind you about the true benefits of breastfeeding for both mum and bub. 

Benefits of Breastfeeding

You’ve probably heard it time and time again that “breast is best”, but what is the real reason why? There are many reasons why breastfeeding/nursing is beneficial for both mother and baby - physically, mentally and emotionally.

For bub: 

  • Provides essential nutrients required for growth and development, 
  • Lowers risks of infections, diabetes and allergies
  • Safe, clean and protects against common childhood illnesses.
  • Lower infant mortality rate 
  • Lowers rates of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
  • Improved brain function
  • Supports digestive health 
  • Builds bond and trust between mother and baby
  • Fewer childhood cancers 

For Mum:

  • Promotes faster weight loss after birth 
  • Stimulates the uterus to contract to normal size faster 
  • Less postpartum bleeding 
  • Boots connection with baby & encourages skin on skin 
  • Naturally soothes hormones, reducing stress 
  • Increased confidence and self esteem 

 

Shared Responsibility

Breastfeeding is an experience that connects mum and bub on a level that can not be explained. Not only is it benefits for the growth, development and protection of babies but assists mum with a faster bounce back as well as developing a deeper bond with bub. With the assistance of families, communities and business the aim to increase the number of mothers breastfeeding can be increased. Sharing the responsibility of education and awareness will enable more mothers to feel not only comfortable while breastfeeding but confident to share their experience. 

Disclaimer:
*For more information about Breastfeeding and COVID-19, consult your doctor or healthcare professional. All information provided has been obtained via the World Health Organisation, Australian Government Department of Health and Australian Breastfeeding Association. 
New Beginnings Maternity understands that breastfeeding is not possible for all mothers. The breastfeeding journey is not an easy one and we understand that it can come easier for others. We aim to respect the choices of all mothers and how they chose to feed. If you have any further concerns or questions about if breastfeeding is right for you, we encourage you to speak to your GP or healthcare professional.