Breastfeeding Needs Politics

Silent voices, important messages

Babies and toddlers have no lobby. They cannot voice their needs at demonstrations, hold press conferences or write letters to politicians. However, the way we treat them says a great deal about the values of our society

It is telling that, while our society expects mothers to provide the ‘best possible’ care for their children, we often leave them to cope on their own. Women are forced into hospitals where staff shortages are the order of the day. Even at Vienna’s largest maternity hospital, which handles over 4,000 births a year, mothers often report tragic and traumatic experiences. Not because the staff lack competence or empathy – quite the opposite. Doctors, midwives and nurses do their very best under immense pressure. Yet often, all they can do is try to minimise the damage.

Breastfeeding, as a key determinant of health, is falling by the wayside. Yet we have known for a long time that breast milk is medicine, prevention and a means of fostering bonding.

Breastfeeding and health policy

All over the world, breastfeeding is recognised as one of the most effective preventive measures. It protects against infections, allergies, obesity, diabetes and even certain types of cancer in mothers and children. The World Health Organisation recommends six months of exclusive breastfeeding, followed by breastfeeding and complementary feeding until at least the child’s second birthday.