It is World Breastfeeding Week, from August 1st – August 7th
Breastfeeding is so beneficial because breast milk is the perfect food for babies supplying the right nutrients in the right amounts.
The first milk, called colostrum, is particularly important for babies.
The WHO recommends breastfeeding continue for the first 2 years of life, with breast milk only for the first 6 months of life.
Breastfeeding is not always easy at the beginning and for some it may not be possible at all, but there are excellent lactation consultants that will help new parents with any issues that come up.
Earlier this year, the WHO launched a report into the exploitative nature of formula milk marketing; it documents how they are using influencers and online groups to reach vulnerable parents with content that is not recognised as advertising. This is something that urgently needs to be put a stop to. You can read more about it here: https://www.who.int/news/item/28-04-2022-who-reveals-shocking-extent-of-exploitative-formula-milk-marketing
Acupuncture for breastfeeding support
Acupuncture is a helpful treatment to help with milk production if there is insufficiency of supply. Acupuncture can also be helpful for treating mastitis.
Chestfeeding
A trans or non-binary person can give birth and choose to chestfeed; I have gathered some helpful resources here on chestfeeding:
Chestfeeding if you’re trans or non-binary – NHS.
Gender Inclusion – BSUH Maternity
Support for Transgender & Non-binary Parents – La Leche League GB
