Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding helps lay the foundations of a healthy life for a baby and also makes a positive contribution to the health and wider wellbeing of mothers and whānau/families. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended until babies are around six months. Although breastfeeding is natural it sometimes doesn't come naturally so it's important that mothers know what to expect and have support from their partners, whānau/families and health practitioners in the early days. Once breastfeeding is established mothers also need support from their employers and the community.