Main content

Breastfeeding - All, nothing or somewhere in between

Programme that offers a female perspective on the world. Why are breastfeeding rates so low in Britain? Are women being given the right kind of help? Does it matter?

According to a major study published recently in the Lancet , Britain has the lowest rates in the world of women breastfeeding for up to six months. There has hardly been a change since 1980. There has been an increase in the numbers of women willing to give it a go, up to 80%, but of these women at least one in five stop in the first two weeks. So why do women give up in this country? Are women being given the right kind of help? How much does it matter if babies aren't breastfed in first world countries? What about mixed feeding? What about the length of time? Is a small amount better than nothing? When is it a good idea to stop trying? Why do so many women find it so difficult? We have two experts on hand - an academic who has spent her career researching breastfeeding rates and a baby feeding expert who is available to give practical help. Do email, tweet or phone the programme on 03700 100444. Lines are open from 8am.

Presenter: Jane Garvey
Producer: Lucinda Montefiore.

Available now

58 minutes

Credits

Role Contributor
Presenter Jane Garvey
Interviewed Guest Pat Hoddinott
Interviewed Guest Clare Byam-Cook
Producer Lucinda Montefiore

Broadcast

  • Mon 8 Feb 2016 10:00

Follow us on Instagram

Get all the pictures, videos, behind the scenes and more from Woman鈥檚 Hour

Podcast