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A report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows breastfeeding is on the rise in America and more are doing so longer. Between 2000 and 2008, the report found the percentage of new mothers who said they breastfed their infants increased from 70 percent to nearly 75 percent, and during the same period the number of mothers still breastfeeding at six months rose to nearly 45 percent.
Breastmilk is considered the ideal nutrition for infants, and it contains antibodies and other protective immune factors that appear to prevent childhood obesity, protect against bite problems, reduce the risk of breast cancer in breastfeeding mom, and even lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
The benefits are well documented, and the report suggests many parents are beginning to understand the message. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for six months, followed by continued breastfeeding for at least 12 months as complementary foods are introduced. Last year the Academy credited breastmilk with reducing the risk of a number of health problems.
However, many mothers who want to breastfeed don’t always get the support they need. According to the AAP:
Despite increases in the prevalence of breastfeeding, fewer than half of the infants in the survey were still breastfeeding at six months, indicating women who choose to breastfeed their infants need support to continue breastfeeding.
The 2011 Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Support Breastfeeding outlines a number of actions aimed at increasing societal support for women. It suggests communities, employers, healthcare providers, governments, and nonprofit organizations implement strategies to support breastfeeding. As well, the CDC’s Guide to Breastfeeding Interventions offers recommendations and program examples to assist communities to support mothers to begin and continue breastfeeding. For additional support tips, click here.
We asked our Facebook fans for some tips to keep new moms motivated and here’s what they had to say.
"Just know, it gets easier the longer you’re doing it. I am going on seven months now. The hardest was the first four weeks. Now it is a breeze."
"Find a mommy group for support."
"Have lots of water and be kind to yourself."
"Don't give up; it's new to both of you. Just because breastfeeding is natural does not necessary mean it will be easy. Give it some time."
"Think about it like you are building a relationship... it can take some work and can present some challenges but it will be so worth it to both you and your baby in the end."
There isn’t a single solution, but if we all make an effort to support breastfeeding moms, lend an ear, or communicate positively with friends and family, we'll be able to change the way most feel.