Comprehensive Guidance on Breastfeeding: Evidence-Based Care for Breastfeeding Mothers

As a major public health issue, breastfeeding is crucial for the health and well-being of both mothers and babies. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, as it provides optimal nutrition, boosts the immune system, and reduces the risk of various diseases. Despite the numerous benefits, breastfeeding rates decline rapidly in the first few days and weeks after birth, highlighting the need for midwives, health visitors, and other healthcare professionals to provide essential support to new mothers.

The Importance of Breastfeeding

• Breastmilk provides all the necessary nutrients for babies in the first six months, promoting healthy growth and development.
• Research has shown that breastfeeding helps protect infants from infections and reduces the risk of obesity, as well as certain diseases in later life for mothers.

In response to the need for comprehensive guidance, this revised edition of Evidence-Based Care for Breastfeeding Mothers is mapped to the UNICEF Baby Friendly Learning Outcomes, ensuring that readers are equipped with the essential knowledge and skills to effectively promote and support breastfeeding mothers.

Comprehensive Coverage for Midwifery and Nursing Students

This accessible and user-friendly textbook covers a range of topics, including:

• Anatomy and physiology of breastfeeding
• Building relationships and communication skills essential for breastfeeding support
• Essential skills and good practice guidelines for healthcare professionals
• Dealing with common breastfeeding problems and challenges
• Public health considerations and policies promoting breastfeeding
• Supporting mothers with special needs and babies requiring additional care
• Complementary feeding and weaning: best practices and recommendations

Each chapter features specific learning outcomes linked to the Baby Friendly Learning Outcomes, key fact boxes, clinical scenarios, and activities designed to aid learning and facilitate continuing professional development.

This invaluable resource is suitable for midwifery and nursing students, as well as practitioners seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge in supporting breastfeeding mothers. By providing comprehensive guidance and evidence-based care, healthcare professionals can empower mothers to make informed choices and achieve successful breastfeeding experiences.

Publication Details:

• Publisher: Taylor and Francis
• Publication Date: August 29, 2023
• Language: English
• ISBN: 9781032252407 and 9781000927368