Dear Members, Dear Colleagues,
In February, the much-discussed first part of the new German S3 guideline — the highest level of clinical practice guideline in Germany, representing systematically developed, evidence-based, and consensus-driven recommendations — on “Breastfeeding Duration and Interventions to Promote Breastfeeding” was published. After years of work — and an even longer period during which Germany followed a path of its own — the country now finally has an official recommendation on breastfeeding duration that is not in disagreement with the international WHO recommendations. In this issue, you will find two commentaries from experts who closely accompanied the development of the guideline: Sandra Deissmann participated as the voting representative of the Association of German Lactation Consultants IBCLC (Berufsverband Deutscher Laktationsberaterinnen IBCLC, BDL) and highlights the key contents of the guideline as well as the challenges involved in reaching consensus. Professor Alfred Längler, who played a leading role in the development process as Chair of the National Breastfeeding Committee (Nationale Stillkommission), reflects on this hard-won achievement together with Vera Hesels in their respective roles as Chair and Managing Director of the German WHO/UNICEF Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI).
The positive effects of breastfeeding on maternal health are the focus of Christine Staricka’s article on lifelong breast health. Drawing on the physiological processes within the female body, she demonstrates why this knowledge should be more firmly embedded both in breastfeeding support and in medical care.
The handout accompanying this issue is devoted to one of the most fundamental prerequisites for a successful breastfeeding relationship: recognising babies’ feeding cues. Clearly structured and illustrated throughout, it provides practical information for supporting and advising families in everyday life.
Supporting breastfeeding mothers with chronic illnesses or particular challenges is at the heart of Bärbel Aab’s contribution. She explores how occupational therapy approaches can meaningfully complement breastfeeding support in order to promote participation and autonomy in daily life with a child. The article also highlights the value of interdisciplinary collaboration for families with complex needs.
What happens when breastfeeding and perimenopause coincide? Although lactation is generally associated with a woman’s fertile years, many women today continue breastfeeding during the transition to menopause. Maria O’Sullivan’s article explores this still largely under-researched topic.
This issue is rounded off with an interview with Mónica Pina, President of the European Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (EABM), discussing the role of this still relatively young organisation, the importance of international networking, and shared perspectives for the future of breastfeeding promotion.
You will also find a review of Helen Ball’s book How Babies Sleep — an engaging read that presents scientific insights into infant sleep in a clear and practical way.
We wish you a summer full of energy, with plenty of time and space for rest and relaxation. Perhaps this issue will accompany you for part of your summer holiday.
Warm regards
Eva Bogensperger-Hezel and the entire editorial team – Mihaela Nita and the ELACTA board