The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that infants be fed exclusively with breast milk for the first six months, and that breastfeeding continue alongside complementary foods for at least two years. Breast milk is clean, safe, and provides all the nutrients necessary for the growth, development, and immune system of infants. It also protects against many health problems such as infections, obesity, diabetes, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
In Türkiye, however, breastfeeding rates fall behind these global recommendations. According to national data, the rate of infants fed exclusively with breast milk is 59% at 0–1 month, 45% at 2–3 months, and drops to 14% at 4–5 months. This rapid decline indicates that breastfeeding has become an important public health issue in the country.
It is noted that biological, psychological, and social factors play a role in the early termination of breastfeeding. Working conditions, lack of postpartum support, false beliefs about nutrition, and crisis situations are among the main factors negatively affecting this process. Some mothers may experience feelings of guilt, loneliness, worthlessness, or failure during breastfeeding.
The Indispensable Benefits of Breast Milk
Breast milk is a unique food that is safe, clean, and contains natural antibodies for infants.
For infants: It meets all energy and nutrient needs in the first months; protects against diseases; supports cognitive development; and reduces the risk of obesity, diabetes, and SIDS.
For mothers: It reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, anemia, and osteoporosis; and supports postpartum recovery.
By the same time, the inappropriate marketing of breast milk substitutes continues to undermine global efforts to improve breastfeeding rates.
World Breastfeeding Week is an important opportunity to highlight the indispensable effects of breastfeeding on the health of both infants and mothers; to emphasize the need to provide professional support to mothers before and after birth; to raise awareness across all segments of society; and to stress the importance of monitoring the marketing of breast milk substitutes.
It should be remembered that breastfeeding is more than an individual choice; it is a public health priority that directly affects the health of future generations.
