In times of crisis—whether due to natural disasters, emergencies, or other vulnerable situations—protecting and supporting breastfeeding is essential for both infant and maternal health. Breastfeeding offers crucial nutrition, comfort, and protection when other resources are scarce. Here’s why safeguarding breastfeeding during these challenging times is so vital, along with some examples of effective initiatives from past disasters:
1. Breastfeeding Provides Essential Nutrition
Breast milk is a complete and dynamic source of nutrition tailored to meet a baby’s evolving needs. In emergencies where access to clean water, food, and medical supplies may be limited, breast milk remains a reliable and safe option. For instance, during the 2010 Haiti earthquake, UNICEF and partners set up mobile clinics to support breastfeeding mothers and distributed breastfeeding kits to ensure that mothers could continue to provide essential nutrition to their babies.
2. Breastfeeding Offers Comfort and Security
Breastfeeding provides not just nourishment but also emotional comfort, which is crucial in stressful situations. The 2019–2020 Australian bushfires highlighted the importance of this support. Relief organizations created designated breastfeeding areas in evacuation centers to provide mothers with a private and comfortable space, helping reduce stress for both mothers and babies during the crisis.
3. Breastfeeding Supports Maternal Health
Breastfeeding aids in postpartum recovery and reduces the risk of certain cancers for mothers. During the COVID-19 pandemic, various health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), emphasized the importance of continuing breastfeeding and provided guidelines on how to do so safely, even in the face of a global health crisis. This support was vital for maintaining maternal health while ensuring that infants received the benefits of breast milk.
4. Ensuring Safe and Clean Breastfeeding Environments
Creating safe and clean breastfeeding spaces is crucial in emergencies. For example, after the 2015 Nepal earthquake, humanitarian efforts included setting up breastfeeding corners in temporary shelters. These spaces were equipped with clean water, sanitary supplies, and comfortable seating to support breastfeeding mothers in maintaining their health and providing for their babies.
5. Advocating for Supportive Policies and Resources
Emergency response plans should incorporate breastfeeding support. During the 2018 Indonesia earthquake and tsunami, emergency response teams worked to ensure that breastfeeding mothers had access to lactation consultants and breastfeeding supplies. This included setting up breastfeeding support tents and providing educational materials to help mothers navigate the challenges of breastfeeding in a crisis.
6. Raising Awareness and Educating Communities
Education plays a key role in supporting breastfeeding during emergencies. The WHO and UNICEF’s “Empowering Parents, Enabling Breastfeeding in Emergencies” campaign highlights the importance of breastfeeding in crises. This campaign provides resources and information to help families prepare for emergencies and continues to support breastfeeding through various initiatives, including training for healthcare providers and public awareness efforts.
Conclusion
Protecting and supporting breastfeeding during vulnerable situations, emergencies, and natural disasters is crucial for the health and well-being of both infants and mothers. From the Haiti earthquake to the Australian bushfires and beyond, effective initiatives have shown the immense value of breastfeeding support in crises. By creating safe breastfeeding environments, advocating for supportive policies, and raising awareness, we can ensure that every baby receives the best start in life, regardless of the challenges they face. Let us continue to learn from past efforts and work together to support breastfeeding with the care and dedication it deserves in every crisis.