Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding within the first six months of a baby's life is recommended as it can make positive differences that may last a lifetime. Breastfeeding has many benefits as it:

• is tailor made to meet a baby's nutritional needs as they grow and develop;
• contains antibodies which can protect them against infections and illness;
• provides the opportunity to create a bond with the baby as well as providing them with food and comfort;
• can offer protection against sudden infant death syndrome; and
• can also protect a mother's health by reducing their risk of ovarian cancer, breast cancer, diabetes and osteoporosis.

Breastfeeding is a an important measure of public health and is included as an indicator in the public health outcomes framework. Increases in breastfeeding are expected to reduce illness in young children, have health benefits for the infant and the mother, and result in cost savings to the NHS through reduced hospital admission for the treatment of infection in infants[i]

Key findings for Lancashire-14

• In 2020/21, in Lancashire-12 there were 33.5% of babies whose first feed was known to be breastmilk (including expressed and donor milk), this is significantly lower than the England rate of 71.7%. This rate is significantly lower than the England rate in Blackburn with Darwen and Blackpool also.
• The 2022/23 rates for breastfeeding prevalence at 6-8 weeks after birth are not available due to data quality reasons. However, the data that have been collated for breastfeeding prevalence can be found in the breastfeeding profiles.

Baby Friendly initiative

Lancashire's neighbourhood centres have recently been recognised with a prestigious award for the high standard of care provided to new mums and children. The centres, which are run by Lancashire County Council and the Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust, have been awarded the Baby Friendly accreditation, part of the Baby Friendly initiative, set up by Unicef and the World Health Organization. 

The award highlights the importance of breastfeeding and strengthening mother-baby and family relationships, with 94% of mothers saying they were happy with the service provided. 

[i] Quigley, MA, Kelly, YJ & Sacker, A. Breastfeeding and Hospitalization for Diarrheal and Respiratory Infection in the United Kingdom Millennium Cohort Study. Pediatrics. April 2007, VOLUME 119 / ISSUE 4

Page updated April 2024