Рreparation for breastfeeding: how to provide a successful start?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15574/SP.2025.7(151).8086Keywords:
breastfeeding, infants, preparation for breastfeeding, breastfeeding self-efficacyAbstract
Despite significant efforts to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding, less than half of infants worldwide are exclusively breastfed in the first six months, which is why the overwhelming majority of official sources recommend starting informational preparation for couples during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Aim - to provide an overview of current recommendations that ensure reliable preparation for breastfeeding long before the baby is born.
As usual, the first consultation starts with a history of feeding, discussing sources of support, benefits, and challenges a woman may face during the breastfeeding period. It is important to discuss with the woman who has not breastfed expected advantages and disadvantages of formula feeding, what might be helpful for her for breastfeeding older children, and to inquire about family history, in which case breastfeeding will be particularly essential for the child. Education about feeding conducted during the antenatal period increases the mother's self-efficacy and influences both success and outcome. This means the confidence and determination of the mother in her ability to breastfeed the child, the efforts she makes, her type of thinking, and ways of overcoming difficulties. A key role in establishing and maintaining breastfeeding belongs to all medical professionals who care for women and children in the postpartum period and thereafter. The effective establishment of breastfeeding is crucially dependent on robust planned care practices for pregnant women by competent medical staff aimed at educating and elevating women's awareness about the importance of natural feeding, promoting breastfeeding in the country, involving the family to provide support, and creating a positive microclimate within the family.
In case of any issues or difficulties, it is necessary to consider of referring to a doctor specializing in breastfeeding medicine or to a breastfeeding consultant.
No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.
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