As South Africa marks World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) from 1 – 7 August, it is the perfect time to re-emphasise the critical value of breastfeeding for early child development, for mother and baby, and for communities.

Breastfeeding support is especially important during the critical first week after birth, as this is when healthy routines and habits are established. The benefits of breastfeeding are many, with breastmilk being nutrient-rich, supporting digestive health and boosting the immune system for babies. It benefits preterm infants and contributes to maternal health.

World Health Organisation (WHO) data shows that breastfeeding children from 0 – 23 months improves IQ, school attendance, and is associated with higher income in adult life.

However, data also shows that South Africa is not enabling breastfeeding as an enormous natural benefit for our children. The Alliance for Science reports that only 32 percent of South African children are exclusively breastfed for the first six months of their lives.

Life Healthcare’s Dr Khungelwa Mrwebi, responsible for leading the group’s clinical maternity initiatives, says that many new mothers battle to breastfeed. “While ‘breast is best’ messaging is important, we must consider that some mothers may have unique situations and should feel able to choose what works best for them and their baby.”

Breastfeeding can be difficult at the beginning, as both mom and baby are learning, and in some cases, babies struggle to latch. Breastfeeding problems can also include structural problems of either the tongue or lips of the baby. The mother may have incredibly sore nipples or even low milk supply. This can cause much anxiety for mothers.

“Fortunately, almost all these problems can be resolved with better support and the right advice – preferably from a certified lactation specialist”, adds Dr Mrwebi.

Dr Mrwebi acknowledges that some moms may also need to avoid breastfeeding due to medications or medical treatments that are not safe for nursing. “Donor breast milk banks do exist in South Africa and may be an option for some”, she said.

Additionally, certain medical conditions may be incompatible with breastfeeding. “In these cases, parents might consider pumping breast milk to feed their baby via a bottle, or temporarily pausing breastfeeding and then resuming later,” she says.

The right to breastfeed, or express milk is protected under South African law, but it’s important that working mothers engage with their employers before they return to work to ensure they can continue providing breastmilk efficiently, and without interrupting their routine. ”Breast milk should not be pumped before the first six weeks, as this is how long the body takes to adjust to producing milk,” explains Dr Mrwebi.

Breastfeeding should be a platform for optimal health for the baby and a healthy relationship between mother and child. It should be encouraged and supported in every family and every community.

“We must, however, recognise that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer for breastfeeding,” adds Dr Mrwebi. “Moms who are struggling to breastfeed can and should get support. For those women who chose not to, or who are unable to breastfeed, we should be mindful of not judging them. The pressures of motherhood are many and it’s important that their choices or circumstances do not negatively impact their mental health.

“If you are struggling with your mental health at any point during or after pregnancy, it is important to speak to your doctor”, says Dr Mrwebi.

Learn more about Life Healthcare’s maternity and paediatric services here: