Breastfeeding

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Breastfeeding

A Mother's Gift, for Every Child

From birth to 6 months of age, feeding infants nothing but breastmilk guarantees them a food source that is uniquely adapted to their nutrient needs, while also being safe, clean, healthy and accessible, no matter where they live.

Putting newborns to the breast within the first hour of life – known as early initiation of breastfeeding – is critical to newborn survival and to establishing breastfeeding over the long term.

The early years of a child’s life build the foundation for their growth and development. Early childhood development determines how your baby thinks, learns and behaves, and in the long run determines their ability to succeed in life. Breastfeeding is essential for child survival and healthy development.

Containing essential antibodies that protect children against diseases, breastmilk is a safe, nutritious, and sustainable source of good nutrition for children. Yet despite the known benefits, millions of children around the world are not exclusively breastfed (without milk, water, bottle-feeding, etc.) in their first six months of life, putting them at increased risk of illness, death, reduced learning potential, and health complications into adulthood.

From the first hour of a baby's life through age two or later, breastfeeding protects against illness and death. Breastfeeding also reduces the burden of childhood and maternal illness, lowering healthcare costs and creating healthier families.

Even as children move from exclusive breastfeeding to a mix of breastmilk and solid foods, breastmilk remains a vital source of essential nutrients, supporting their growth and development during this critical stage.

All You Need to Know About Breastfeeding

UNICEF Rasal Kavar Embraces Breastfeeding for Her Baby in Moderdi, Barmer, Rajasthan

^{Early initiation of breastfeeding—placing the newborn to the breast within the first hour of life—is crucial for newborn survival and helps establish successful breastfeeding in the long term. This early bonding also supports the baby’s immune system from the very beginning.}

Benefits of Breastfeeding

^{Breastfeeding is not just the responsibility of the mother—it is everyone’s duty. Families, employers, communities, and governments all play a vital role in supporting mothers to breastfeed successfully.}

Why Breastfeeding Is Everyone's Duty

UNICEF Let's make breastfeeding at work, work!

^{Breastfeeding is key to the overall development of children. Create supportive spaces and crèches at workplaces to allow mothers to breastfeed.}

How to Make Breastfeeding at Work, Work!

^{Correct Positioning & Latching for Successful Breastfeeding. Comfortably hold your baby, aligning their body with yours, and support them with your forearm.}