Promote, Protect, and Support Breastfeeding: What is the Role of Obstetricians?

Abstract

The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of an infant’s life. In Hong Kong, although many mothers initiate breastfeeding, most do not continue as long as they had planned. Common reasons for discontinuation were insufficient breast milk, tiredness and fatigue, return to work, lack of support,
and introduction of formula feeding before 1 month. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists strongly supports breastfeeding and calls on its Fellows, other related professionals, hospitals, and employers to support women in choosing to breastfeed their infants. Obstetricians, in collaboration with paediatricians, lactation
consultants and other disciplines can help promote, protect, and support breastfeeding in the antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum period. They can also support policy efforts in hospitals and workplaces that enable women to breastfeed. All obstetricians should improve their knowledge about breastfeeding to benefit babies and mothers.