Evidence-based Care for Breastfeeding Mothers: A Resource for Midwives and Allied Healthcare Professionals

Breastfeeding is a major public health issue. Breast milk provides all the nutrients a baby needs for their first six months. Research studies also show that breastfeeding doesn’t just help to protect infants from infection, but has other benefits such as reducing obesity and can help protect mothers from some diseases in later life.

Breastfeeding rates are low, however, and women need the support of their midwives and health visitors when beginning breastfeeding and throughout their child’s infancy. This This evidence-based new edition addresses all the updated UNICEF UK BFIBest Practice Standards for Higher Education Institutions outcomes to ensure that students are equipped with the essential knowledge and skills to effectively promote and support breastfeeding mothers. It discusses:

• anatomy and physiology;
• the importance of buidling strong relationships;
• essential skills and good practice guidance;
• dealing with common problems;
• public health considerations;
• babies and mothers with special needs;
• complementary feeding.

Suitable for both pre-registration midwifery students and health professionals undertaking continuing professional development, Evidence-based Care for Breastfeeding Mothers is designed to aid learning. The chapters include specific learning outcomes linked to the Baby Friendly standards, key fact boxes, clinical scenarios and activities.