| Statistics released to coincide with National Breastfeeding Awareness Week show the numbers of mothers locally choosing to breastfeed have remained relatively static over the last seven years.
The figures, published by the Scottish Government’s Information and Statistics Division, also show a fall in the numbers breastfeeding between around 10 days after birth and at the next check between six and eight weeks after birth. These figures, too, have remained fairly static for Tayside.
Last year, just over 4000 babies born in Tayside (41.7%) were exclusively breastfed when the health visitor first called. Figures for each of the previous six years hovered between 41.3% and 43.6%.
Last year, 27.9% of babies were exclusively breastfed when reviewed between six and eight weeks after birth. These figures hovered between 27.4% and 30.3% over the previous six years.
Breastfeeding in infancy is encouraged because there is good evidence it has a protective effect against many childhood illnesses.
Other probable benefits include improved cognitive and psychological developments, and a reduced risk of childhood obesity. There is evidence women who breastfed have lower risks of pre-menopausal breast cancer, epithelial ovarian cancer and hip fracture later in life.
The Scottish Government called on health boards to increase the proportion of newborn children exclusively breastfed. A target has been set to increase the proportion at 6-8 weeks from 26.2% in 2006/07 to 32.7% in 2010/11.
Janet Dalzell, Breastfeeding Co-ordinator for NHS Tayside, said, “We recognise that breastfeeding provides the best possible start for babies.
“However, we recognise breastfeeding takes time and has to be learned.
“Having the right kind of support and encouragement is vital to ensure success. This week we are highlighting that everyone needs help and support during the first few weeks to get feeding established and that this is perfectly normal when trying to master a new skill.
“Should a woman decide to breastfeed then their midwife and/or health visitor will do all they can to support them.
“We would also like to encourage any mums who have breastfed to become a volunteer to help new mums with breastfeeding.”
Anyone wanting to become a volunteer can visit www.volunteersscotland.org.uk or telephone 01382 424091. |
