Breastfeeding
Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life is recognized as the optimal feeding practice to enhance child survival, growth and development. Exclusive breastfeeding for six months has a strong protective effect against diarrhea by eliminating an infant's exposure to waterborne pathogens. It also provides protective antibodies against diarrhea and other diseases. Lactational amenorrhea (the absence of menses resulting from full breastfeeding during the first months postpartum) can provide a woman with natural contraception while she breastfeeds her infant. In developing countries, continued breastfeeding is recommended for at least two years.
USAID's Response
USAID works to improve breastfeeding practices and increase exclusive breastfeeding in developing countries. USAID provides culturally acceptable technical assistance to health practitioners, including those working at the community level, on how best to educate mothers about breastfeeding and child health. USAID provides technical assistance in breastfeeding programming, social marketing, support networks, and policy guidance for a variety of sectors and programs. USAID supports national and regional breastfeeding programs and centers, integrating them with other maternal/child health and reproductive health programs. USAID also supports research and national assessments that aid in the planning and development of country program activities.
Key Achievements
- In Madagascar, exclusive breastfeeding promotion was incorporated into nutrition programs, reproductive health programs, and the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness initiative. As a result, national rates of exclusive breastfeeding increased from 48 percent in 1998 to 67 percent by 2003.
- To reduce the risk of transmitting HIV infection through breast milk, USAID is working with district health management teams and other local partners in clinic- and community-based maternal and child health services to provide counseling to mothers so they can weigh the risks and benefits of different feeding options and choose the safest strategy for their situation. Mixed feeding of breast milk and other liquids or foods during the infant's first six months, which carries the highest risk of HIV transmission, declined in the program area, while exclusive breastfeeding of infants less than six months old increased from 57 to 69 percent.
Related Links
Infant and Young Child Feeding
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