Breastfeeding in Emergency Situations

Breastfeeding is not only invaluable for the everyday health of your baby or toddler, it is especially helpful during emergency situations. Usually, in emergency situations and natural calamities, children are first to be at risk for diarrhea, pneumonia, malnutrition and other health problems. Risks linked to bottle and formula feeding are dramatically increased due to poor hygiene, crowding and limited water and fuel. Breastfeeding is one of the first and natural responses that any mother can provide for her child.

The Benefits of Breastfeeding During Emergency Situations:

• Safe nutrition, whatever the situation. Always at the right temperature and hygienic for the child.
• No need for sterilization of bottles and water
• Can be done anytime, anywhere
• It is free, there is nothing that needs to be purchased for a mother to breastfeed
• Provides the child with comfort and relief during stressful situations

Even women who are stressed or malnourished can breastfeed their children. Breastfeeding is an important public health intervention. It is vital that mothers are made aware of the benefits of breastfeeding, especially in the light of possible future calamities in the Philippines like fires, typhoons and earthquakes.

RESOURCES:

• “Safeguarding nutritional rights in emergencies,” UNICEF (United Nations Emergency Children’s Fund) ,
  
• “Infant and Young Child Feeding In Emergency Situations,” Wellstart website
• “The Importance of Breastfeeding During Emergencies” podcast transcript, World Health Organization website
  

Image from www.mammydoula.co.uk

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