Breastfeeding Rates High in India, Yet Exclusive Feeding Declines
Breastfeeding High in India, But Exclusive Feeding Sees a Decline
Image: Asianet Newsable
India shows a high breastfeeding rate of 95.6% among infants under six months, but exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) has decreased. Factors include urban cesarean deliveries, limited maternity leave, and commercial baby food promotion. Experts call for systemic changes to improve EBF practices.
- 0195.6% of infants under six months are breastfed, but exclusive breastfeeding has declined due to various factors.
- 02Urban cesarean deliveries hinder early breastfeeding initiation, and limited maternity leave affects working mothers' ability to exclusively breastfeed.
- 03States like Sikkim and Kerala show significant improvements in breastfeeding rates, while Haryana and Uttar Pradesh have seen steep declines in exclusive breastfeeding.
- 04Mothers face challenges such as stress, pain, and family pressures, leading to early introduction of formula and complementary foods.
- 05Experts recommend policy changes, including stricter enforcement of the Infant Milk Substitutes Act and expanded paid maternity leave.
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The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6) indicates that while 95.6% of infants under six months are breastfed in India, the rate of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) has declined. Factors contributing to this decline include an increase in urban cesarean deliveries, limited maternity leave, and aggressive marketing of baby formulas. Experts like Dr. Abha Majumdar and Dr. Rahul Verma highlight that working mothers often lack adequate support, leading to early introduction of complementary foods. Some states, such as Sikkim and Kerala, have shown improvements in breastfeeding rates, while Haryana and Uttar Pradesh experienced significant declines in EBF. The report emphasizes the need for systemic changes, including better maternity leave policies and education for families on breastfeeding practices. Experts advocate for a multi-level approach to promote EBF, including enforcing the Infant Milk Substitutes (IMS) Act and providing structured lactation counseling in healthcare settings.
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The decline in exclusive breastfeeding can affect infant health and nutrition, leading to increased reliance on formula and complementary foods.
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