WIREDGOV

To mark the start of Breastfeeding Week, an on-line survey is being launched to find out what men think of women breastfeeding.

Women have said that one of the reasons that they do not breastfeed or continue to breastfeed - especially in public – is because their partners and men in general find breastfeeding uncomfortable and embarrassing to witness.

The survey’s findings will be used to inform future activity to encourage breastfeeding and challenge negative perceptions. Information specifically for men will be developed to help them understand the importance of breastfeeding, and know ways to support and encourage their partners.
 
The short questionnaire should take 5 minutes to complete.

A range of activities are being organised across Wales this week to raise awareness of the health benefits that breastfeeding gives babies, such as more protection from gastro-enteritis, from chest and ear infections, diabetes, allergies and other illnesses.  Mothers, too, have more protection from some cancers and from weak bones in later life.

Jane Wilkinson Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Wales, said:

"Breastfeeding gives babies the best start in life and Breastfeeding Week provides an opportunity to highlight its many benefits. Across the country there are small, local breastfeeding groups where pregnant women and new mothers can meet and support each other.

"Men also have a crucial role in supporting their partners to breastfeed. That’s why it is so important we get the views of men to help us develop a programme later this year to raise their awareness of breastfeeding.

"Not only does breast milk have many health benefits for mother and baby, but it is free.”

Sue Sky, the Welsh Assembly Government's Breastfeeding co-ordinator, said:

“Breastfeeding has the advantage that the baby can be fed immediately and so avoids the distress of a hungry baby having to wait for feeds to be prepared.

"The health service plays a crucial role in helping to inform and support new mums in particular on giving babies the best start in life – especially through explaining the importance of breastfeeding.

"But while many women do want to breastfeed, and feel comfortable breastfeeding at home, many still feel they are unable to in public.

"This is something that we must overcome and make it more socially acceptable to breastfeed in public, whether that be in a café, supermarket or shops. While breastfeeding is becoming more acceptable in public, more businesses and organisations also need to show support for mothers to breastfeed.  Over 350 premises have already joined the Welsh Assembly Government’s Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme."


Links
Breastfeeding

Link to questionnaire