This blog post has been written by Hanna Kruger, a registered Dietitian (RD(SA)) and Certified Lactation Consultant (SACLC) at RVA Dietitians, practicing at Kiaat Private Hospital.
World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) provides a vital annual opportunity to raise awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding for mothers, babies, and society as a whole. The theme for WBW 2025, “Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems,” serves as a powerful reminder that breastfeeding is not solely a personal choice but a collective responsibility – it is the foundation for lifelong health and a significant contributor to a more sustainable world. This blog post aims to explore the importance of this theme and the various ways in which we can build and sustain a supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers.
Why Creating Sustainable Support Systems Matters:
- A Foundation for Lifelong Health: Breastfeeding, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), offers a child the best start in life. It provides a baby with optimal nutrition, bolsters their immune system, and protects against infections. For mothers, breastfeeding can reduce the risk of certain cancers and contribute to postpartum recovery. A strong support system ensures that more mothers can breastfeed successfully, leading to healthier families and communities.
- The Environmental Impact: By supporting breastfeeding, we also contribute to a greener planet. The production, packaging, and transportation of infant formula contribute to a significant carbon footprint and environmental waste. Breastfeeding is an eco-friendly and cost-effective option that requires minimal external resources.
“Warm Chain” of Support:
- The success of a mother’s breastfeeding journey often depends on the support she receives from a “warm chain” of individuals and institutions. This includes:
- Healthcare Professionals: Skilled healthcare providers who offer expert guidance and encouragement.
- Family and Partners: Partners and family members who provide emotional and practical support at home.
- Workplaces: Employers who implement breastfeeding-friendly policies, such as paid leave and dedicated spaces for expressing milk.
- Community: A wider community that fosters a supportive and understanding culture around breastfeeding, free from judgment and stigma.
How to Strengthen the Chain of Support:
- Empower Mothers with Expert, Specialised Knowledge: While many healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurses, provide valuable support and guidance, the journey of breastfeeding can present unique challenges. For this reason, the expertise of a certified lactation consultant is invaluable. These are trained professionals who provide in-depth, evidence-based support to help mothers navigate difficulties—from latching and positioning issues to supply concerns—and feel confident in their ability to breastfeed successfully.
- Advocate for Policy Change: Encourage and support policies at a local and national level that protect and promote breastfeeding. This includes advocating for adequate paid maternity leave and the enforcement of codes that regulate the marketing of breast-milk substitutes.
- Offer a Helping Hand: Be a source of support for breastfeeding mothers in your life. This could be as simple as offering a listening ear, preparing a meal, or creating a comfortable space for them to feed their baby.
World Breastfeeding Week 2025 reminds us that by prioritising breastfeeding and building sustainable support systems, we are not only nurturing babies but also investing in a healthier and sustainable future for everyone. Let us all work together to strengthen the warm chain of support and empower mothers on their breastfeeding journey, not just this week, but all year round.
Written by Hanna Kruger
Registered Dietitian (RD(SA)) and Certified Lactation Consultant (SACLC) at RVA Dietitians
060 661 5652
https://www.rvadietitian.co.za/
https://www.facebook.com/rvadietitians
