*World Breastfeeding Week (August 1 to 7): Q&A*

*Author: Dr. Shiva Murthy N, Professor, Department of Pharmacology, CDSIMER Medical College, Ramanagar District, Karnataka*

*1. What is breastfeeding?*

Breastfeeding is the act of feeding a baby with milk from the mother’s breast. It is a natural and healthy way to provide nutrition.

*2. What are the benefits of breastfeeding?*

- *For the baby:* Mother's milk contains all necessary nutrients and is essential for the baby's physical and mental development. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months is ideal. It supports better health, intelligence, and physical growth in the baby.

- *For the mother:* Breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancers and helps prevent other health issues.

*3. What precautions should be taken while breastfeeding?*

- The mother should wear cotton clothes.

- The nipple should be kept clean. It does not need to be washed every time.

- Avoid using any lotions or creams.

- The mother should consume healthy food and drink plenty of water.

- If the mother has any mental or physical health issues, she should seek medical advice.

*4. What are the methods of breastfeeding?*

- The mother should sit comfortably.

- The baby should latch directly onto the mother’s breast.

- Hold the baby at an even angle against the breast.

- Alternate between both breasts during feeding.

*5. How should breastfeeding be managed during the first six months?*

- In the first month, breastfeed 8-12 times a day.

- After 3 months, reduce to 6-8 times a day; after 6 months, 4-6 times a day is preferable.

*6. What is the importance of breastfeeding and the precautions to follow?*

- The first milk, called colostrum, provides the baby with immune protection.

- Increasing skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby helps milk production and flow easier.

*7. What is the purpose of World Breastfeeding Week?*

World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated annually from August 1 to 7. The week aims to promote the importance of breastfeeding and its health benefits. Started in 1991, it is organized in collaboration with WHO, UNICEF, and WBW.

*8. What are the historical achievements related to breastfeeding?*

- In 1992, the organization WABA launched World Breastfeeding Week.

- By 2010, 488 organizations in 79 countries had organized 540 events.

- WHO and AAP emphasize the importance of breastfeeding and its critical role in ensuring better health for infants.

*9. What do scientific studies indicate about the necessity of breastfeeding in the environment?*

- Mother's milk is an excellent resource for the healthy growth of babies and preventing illnesses.

- Hormonal changes during pregnancy help produce more milk and maintain its quality.

For all these reasons, breastfeeding plays a crucial role in providing excellent health for both the mother and the baby, and World Breastfeeding Week plays an essential role in reinforcing this significance.

Hindusthan Samachar / Manohar Yadavatti