BREASTFEED: This is week of enlightenment

Most women have heard that breastfeeding gives babies a healthy start to life. To fit breastfeeding into their lives, however, mothers need the whole community to support their decision - beginning with the earliest days after their babies are born.

The 2010 World Breastfeeding Week (Aug. 1-7) theme, "Breastfeeding Just 10 Steps! The Baby Friendly Way," draws attention to simple steps that hospital, health care providers, workplaces, the community and families can take to help mothers achieve their breastfeeding goals.

Nearly all medical and professional organizations worldwide emphasize the importance of breastfeeding and the role of support for new mothers. Research is clear that breastfeeding is vital for infant growth and development, with a profound impact on both the infant and mothers health. Breastfeeding provides nutritional and health advantages that last far beyond infancy, including reduced risk of ear infections, gastroenteritis, severe lower respiratory tract infections and SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). It has also been shown to be vital for women's health by lowering the mother's risk for breast and ovarian cancer, diabetes and even cardiovascular disease throughout life.

It is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the World Health Organization and other medical organizations that baby exclusively breastfeed for at least the first six months of life, and continue breastfeeding for at least one year and beyond to gain maximum health advantages. These health outcomes also directly link to health care costs. In the U.S., it has been estimated that $13 billion could be saved annually if women breastfed exclusively for six months and more than 900 babies lives would be saved!

So during this week, and beyond encourage families to learn about the advantages of breastfeeding and breast milk. Seek out health care providers that positively support your decision to breastfeed. Join mother to mother support groups and find local La Leche League groups to visit. Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) are also available throughout the Coeur d'Alene and Spokane area that can provide solutions and also work to eliminate barriers that make breastfeeding seem hard.

Breast milk is a gift of life. Breastfeeding creates a bond like no other. Every one counts to better health!

EILEEN BAGAN

RN, IBCLC

Coeur d'Alene