Page updated: 30 Sep 2010
Breastfeeding rates on the rise in Trafford
The number of new mums in Trafford who breastfeed their babies is rising, Department of Health figures show.
Breastfeeding Initiation rates for quarter one 2010/11 were 77.7%, up from 72.3% in quarter four in 2009/10. Rates are measured again at age 6 to 8 weeks, and this figure had also risen from 45.6% in quarter four 2009/10 to 53.13%.
Dr Lisa Davies, consultant in public health at NHS Trafford, said: “It’s great news that the number of mums who breastfeed is increasing. Breast milk is the best form of nutrition for infants, and exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months of a child’s life. Breastfed babies are at lower risk of chest infections, and exclusive breastfeeding reduces the chances of babies being hospitalised with diarrhoea and respiratory infections.
“While it isn’t possible for a very small number of women, we encourage all those who are able to breastfeed to do so. Not only is it good for the baby’s health, there are also significant health benefits for mothers. Mothers who do not breastfeed have an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancers and find it more difficult to return to pre-pregnancy weight.”
Trafford children and young people’s service (CYPS) has established a support network for new and expectant mothers to encourage breastfeeding. Infant feeding coordinator Jackie Hall has set up discussion groups for those wanting to find out more information about breastfeeding in a relaxed, informal setting. The sessions will cover topics such as the difference between formula and breast milk, understanding the baby’s feeding cues, and returning to work, expressing and storing.
There are also drop-in sessions that take place throughout the week in Trafford. These are led by peer supporters, who are trained local breastfeeding mums, and a health professional and children’s centre worker are also on hand to offer advice.
The sessions are also regularly attended by a qualified breastfeeding counsellor, and mums have access to a wide range of resources.
Supporting breastfeeding is not the only way that NHS Trafford supports infant health. Mums-to-be who smoke get specialised support from the NHS Trafford stop smoking service. Last year, the stop smoking team helped 33 pregnant women in Trafford kick the habit. Rates in 2009/10 were 10.9% against a target of 15%, and Trafford had the lowest rates in the north west. Anyone wanting help to stop smoking should call the Trafford stop smoking service on 0300 456 2400.
For more information about the drop-in sessions and discussion groups, call Jackie Hall on 07894 489 937. For help and advice on anything to do with breastfeeding, call the NHS breastfeeding helpline, 0300 100 0212, or visit www.breastfeeding.nhs.uk.