NCD Watch

Practicing Breastfeeding: A Link to Life Long Health

26 May 2014 (Mon)

Breastfeeding is the unequalled way of providing optimal nutritional, immunological and emotional nurturing for growth and development of infants with the benefits proportional to the exclusiveness and duration. Research also revealed that breastfeeding is an effective way in primary prevention of chronic conditions (such as childhood obesity, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and allergies). The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends infants should be breastfed exclusively in the first 6 months, then with introduction of complementary food and continue to be breastfed until 2 years or above.

In Hong Kong, women are increasingly being aware of the benefits of breastfeeding and choosing to breastfeed their infants. The breastfeeding initiation rate in Hong Kong has been increasing in the past two decades. The annual surveys conducted by the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative Hong Kong Association (BFHIHKA) showed that the breastfeeding rate on hospital discharge increased substantially from 19.0% in 1992 to 85.8% in 2012. However, the sustained exclusive breastfeeding rates remain low. The breastfeeding survey conducted by the Family Health Service (FHS) of the Department of Health (DH) in its Maternal and Child Health Centres (MCHCs) in 2013 on babies born in 2012 revealed that the exclusive breastfeeding rate dropped from 22.1% at 1 month to 2.3% at 6 months.

Breastmilk is mother's first and best gift for baby, here are some practical tips on successful breastfeeding for expectant parents and parents:

  • Obtain correct information and learn to breastfeed by attending antenatal classes offered by hospitals, Maternal and Child Health Centres of the Department of Health, and breastfeeding organisations together with your family.
  • Discuss your intention to breastfeed with your attending obstetrician to plan ahead the choice of pain control during labour and the postnatal in-hospital arrangement. Choose a hospital with mother-baby-friendly practices for delivery.
  • Gain support from the mothers' employer / supervisor to continue breastfeeding. Communicate clearly the specific support needed for expressing breastmilk at work so as to facilitate the employer / supervisor to make better work arrangement and preparation for the workplace.
  • Get prepared by checking the availability of babycare facilities at your destination before going out.
  • Seek professional help and advice early if indicated.