International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

As World Breastfeeding Week kicks off, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has highlighted the benefits of breastfeeding for maternal and newborn health.

In a report released on July 30th, the WHO claimed breastfeeding a child up to the age of two could help to save 1.5 million children under five out of the 8.8 million it is predicted die each year from malnutrition.

Many infant deaths attributed to malnutrition occur in the first few months of life and WHO officials claim the deaths are often associated with inappropriate feeding practices.

According to WHO, breast milk is ideal for babies and newborns in developed and developing countries, providing them with essential nutrients and antibodies.

WHO officials believe only 35 per cent of babies aged up to six months are breastfed.

The organisation believes that if all children were exclusively breastfed to six months old and then breastfed and given additional supplements, infant health could be improved.

Breastfeeding can also have a positive impact on maternal health, reducing the risk of developing ovarian and breast cancer.

Supermodel and mother Gisele Bundchen recently told Harper's Bazaar magazine that breastfeeding should be compulsory for all mothers in the first six months of their baby's life.

Posted by Martine Ward