Breastfeeding and maternal mental health is a topic that is often in the headlines. Lots of articles suggest that we put too much pressure on new mothers to breastfeed. However, when breastfeeding is going well, and mothers want to breastfeed, our research shows that being able to breastfeed can really help protect their mental health.
We also know that difficulty breastfeeding and having to stop breastfeeding before you are ready can increase the risk of postnatal depression. Our research shows that the more complications mums have such as pain, difficulty or low milk supply, the higher their risk of postnatal depression particularly if they need to stop feeding.
It’s really important if you are a breastfeeding mum who is struggling with breastfeeding or how you feel to get support. Ask your midwife or health visitor for your local breastfeeding support group or you call the National Breastfeeding Helpline for free on 0300 100 0212
Find out more:
- For mums who want to breastfeed, we are campaigning for them to have as much support and investment as possible, and the link with postnatal depression is one of the main reasons why.
You might find our articles on the importance of supporting breastfeeding for maternal mental health interesting
- https://theconversation.com/breastfeeding-is-good-for-mothers-mental-health-but-those-who-struggle-need-support-103788
- https://theconversation.com/traumatic-breastfeeding-experiences-are-the-reason-we-must-continue-to-promote-it-63550
- You can also watch a clip of Professor Amy Brown talking about the importance of supporting mothers who haven’t been able to breastfeed
- We have been working to ensure that breastfeeding receives more support in order to help protect mother’s mental health.
You might be interested in:
Perinatal Mental Health Competency Framework for Professionals and Volunteers who support Infant Feeding