Breast milk is the ideal form of nutrition for a baby. It is nutritionally balanced, with the perfect amount of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and iron to help the baby grow. Breast milk also changes to suit the different needs of your baby as it grows.
Global guidelines
The Department of Health supports the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) advice that:
- Breast milk is the best form of nutrition for infants.
- Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months (26 weeks) of a baby’s life because it provides all the nutrients that a baby needs to achieve optimal growth, development, and health.
- Breastfeeding (and/or breast milk substitutes) should continue for a minimum of the first six months, and should continue as solid food is introduced. WHO recommends that breastfeeding should continue for two years or longer.
- Mothers who are unable to breastfeed, or choose not to, should discuss other options with their GP or midwife while they are pregnant. It is very important that mothers who do not breastfeed are given information and support so that their baby gets the nutrition that they need.
Breastfeeding benefits
Breastfeeding is a completely natural way of feeding your baby, and it has short- and long-term health benefits for both mother and child
Breast milk is the only source of nutrition that is naturally designed specifically for your baby. It also provides your baby with protection against infections and diseases. Any amount of breastfeeding has a positive effect, and the longer you breastfeed, the longer the protection lasts. It also reduces your chances of getting some illnesses later in life.
Breastfeeding can be a very satisfying and relaxing experience because it promotes a sense of closeness between mother and child. Support from family, friends, and healthcare professionals is also important, particularly for first-time mothers, or mothers who find breastfeeding difficult to get used to.
Many sources of help, advice and support are available if you have any concerns about breastfeeding, or if you need advice about how to breastfeed properly. Help and support is available form:
- your GP,
- your midwife,
- self-help groups,
- telephone help lines, and
- breastfeeding counsellors.
See the advantages section for more detailed information about the benefits of breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding is not always possible
Despite the nutritional advantages that are associated with breastfeeding, some women may be unable to breastfeed for medical, or practical, reasons.
For example, if you have a blood-borne virus, such as hepatitis B, or HIV, or if you are taking a certain type of medication, these can be passed on to your baby through your breast milk. In these circumstances, bottle feeding your baby using formula milk will usually be recommended.
See the bottle feeding Health A-Z topic for further information.
