Hello,

When I was pregnant with my first child a couple of years ago, I thought I had done everything I could do to prepare myself for this beautiful journey. I had researched, I had planned, and I was convinced I was able to determine what is best for my child.

One of the first things that I felt strongly about was that I would exclusively breastfeed my child for the first six months of his/her life. I had read the research, I had read the expert advice, and I had watched enough ‘momfluencers’ online.

Then came the baby, the storm of hormones, and the drove of unsolicited advice!

“He keeps crying, maybe try giving him some water sweetened with sugar.”

“He looks way too thin, maybe try giving him something more.”

“We have had multiple babies! We always started feeding them baby food from about 3-4 months! They are all healthy!”

In that moment, I must admit, I was confused. I questioned myself and if I was, in fact, doing what is best for my child. Should I really ignore the advice of my elders—after all, they have had more kids than I have! Am I really sure if my child is getting enough to satiate his hunger?

Today, I am glad that I put my foot down, and only listened to his doctors’ advice. (I did have to supplement his feeding with very minimal formula milk at times, as suggested by his doctor, owing to low milk supply).

I am sure that these are questions many new moms have had to struggle with; but to them all I would like to say is: listen to your doctors and trained experts! I know it can feel overwhelming; the second-guessing and the mom-guilt and anxiety are all real. Which is why it is important to rely on trusted and verified information when it comes to your or your family’s health.

The WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for children until they are six months of age. “Exclusive breastfeeding means that the infant receives only breast milk. No other liquids or solids are given – not even water – with the exception of oral rehydration solution, or drops/syrups of vitamins, minerals or medicines,” it says.

In India, we have made great strides in ensuring that children are exclusively breastfed until they are six months of age. In fact, it has increased from 55 per cent in 2015-16 to 64 per cent in 2019-21, according to the National Family Health Surveys. Let us not allow misinformation to get in the way of this milestone—breast milk is called liquid gold for a reason! It has all the nutrients your infant needs, protects them against certain illnesses, and also offers long-term health benefits to child!

As we celebrate World Breastfeeding Week, let’s offer our new mothers support, and not unsolicited advice!

Because Health matters, Facts matter.

And yes! I am happy to hear from you!