Today’s parents have access to more health and parenting information than previous generations. Pregnancy applications, parenting communities, lactation consultants and telemedicine have made expert guidance easier to access. Yet having more information does not always mean mothers receive the practical support they need to continue breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding remains an important part of infant nutrition. The World Health Organization and UNICEF recommend starting breastfeeding within the first hour after birth, exclusively breastfeeding for the first six months, and introducing appropriate complementary foods at six months while continuing breastfeeding up to two years or beyond.
Awareness Is Growing, but Challenges Remain
India has made progress in some early breastfeeding practices, but sustaining exclusive breastfeeding can be difficult for many families.
According to WHO and UNICEF, globally 48% of infants under six months were exclusively breastfed in 2024. Despite this progress, mothers continue to face barriers such as inadequate support and difficulties balancing breastfeeding with work and everyday responsibilities.
Information overload can also create confusion. Parents may encounter conflicting advice on social media, traditional beliefs and recommendations that are not supported by scientific evidence.
Why Are Breastfeeding Choices Changing?
Several factors can influence breastfeeding decisions, including:
- Returning to work soon after childbirth
- Lack of practical breastfeeding support
- Difficulties with baby’s latch
- Concerns about milk supply
- Pain or discomfort
- Caesarean delivery or premature birth
- Conflicting advice on social media
- Increasing availability and use of formula feeding
This does not mean that mothers who struggle with breastfeeding are not informed or committed. In many cases, the problem is that information is available, but timely practical assistance is not.
The First Few Days Can Be Crucial
The early postpartum period can be challenging. A mother may be recovering from childbirth while simultaneously learning how to position the baby, establish a comfortable latch and understand the baby’s feeding patterns.
WHO notes that most babies need to breastfeed frequently during the first six months, and mothers who are concerned about milk intake can seek help from a breastfeeding counsellor or healthcare professional to assess attachment and feeding.
Early skin-to-skin contact and skilled lactation support can therefore make the transition easier.
What If the Mother Becomes Sick?
A common concern is whether breastfeeding must automatically stop when a mother develops an illness.
For many common illnesses, breastfeeding can usually continue, but the answer depends on the specific condition and any medication being taken. WHO notes that most medicines can be used during breastfeeding, although some situations require specialist advice.
Therefore, mothers should not stop breastfeeding or discontinue prescribed medication on their own. They should speak with a qualified healthcare professional about their particular circumstances.
Why Breast Milk Matters for Babies
Breast milk provides essential nutrients and contains antibodies and other protective components. WHO says exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months provides infants with the nutrition they need and helps protect them against illnesses including respiratory infections and diarrhoeal disease.
After six months, babies should begin receiving safe and nutritionally adequate complementary foods while breastfeeding continues.
Breastfeeding Is Not Only the Mother’s Responsibility
One of the most important changes needed is a stronger support system around new mothers.
Family members can help by reducing household pressure and giving mothers time to feed and rest. Healthcare facilities can provide skilled lactation support, while workplaces can offer practical arrangements that allow mothers to continue breastfeeding after returning to work.
UNICEF and WHO have specifically called for equal access to breastfeeding support, noting that mothers benefit when families, healthcare systems and wider social structures work together.
The Bottom Line
Today’s parents may have unprecedented access to health information, but breastfeeding success depends on much more than knowledge. Practical guidance, family support, healthcare assistance and breastfeeding-friendly workplaces can make a significant difference.
Breastfeeding should not become a source of guilt or pressure for mothers. Instead, families should have access to accurate information and qualified professional support so they can make informed decisions based on their individual circumstances.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. If you are experiencing pain, concerns about milk supply, difficulty with latching, or questions about breastfeeding while taking medication, consult a qualified healthcare professional or lactation specialist.