Latest news with #Breastfeeding
Free Malaysia Today
4 days ago
- Health
- Free Malaysia Today
The mental strain behind breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is often portrayed as a natural and joyful experience, but for many Malaysian mothers, it can be a silent source of stress, guilt, and emotional fatigue. (Freepik pic) KUALA LUMPUR : World Breastfeeding Week, observed annually from Aug 1-7, highlights breastfeeding as a foundation for lifelong health, development, and equity. Breastfeeding remains one of the most effective ways to ensure a baby's health and survival. It provides safe, nutrient-rich nourishment that protects the child against illness, while strengthening the emotional bond between mother and infant. While physical breastfeeding challenges are often acknowledged, the emotional and psychological toll remains underdiscussed. For many Malaysian mothers, the experience is deeply emotional, entangled with guilt, stress, and isolation. Even the most enthusiastic mothers encounter obstacles, ranging from limited breastfeeding knowledge and lack of support from healthcare professionals and family members, to outdated facilities that make breastfeeding more challenging. These impact not only breastfeeding practices but also mental health. Therefore, a holistic approach is needed – one that integrates education, emotional support, and infrastructure improvements. Breastfeeding is closely linked with hormonal changes, particularly oxytocin, which promotes relaxation and bonding. However, issues such as low milk supply, difficulty in latching, or painful conditions such as engorged breasts or cracked nipples can trigger emotional stress. These challenges can heighten anxiety, especially in first-time mothers. There is a significant link between low breastfeeding success rates and postpartum depression: depression can hinder breastfeeding, and breastfeeding challenges can deepen depression. In Malaysia, breastfeeding is often seen as a moral responsibility and a reflection of good motherhood. As a result, mothers who use formula milk may feel judged or inadequate. Cultural stigma, compounded by rigid messaging from healthcare providers and social media, often intensifies this guilt. Despite progress in maternal and child healthcare, mental health remains a taboo topic in many Malaysian households. The National Health and Morbidity Survey 2022 reported that 11.2% of postpartum women showed signs of depression. Yet many cases go undiagnosed and untreated, as emotional distress is often dismissed as a normal part of motherhood. New mothers often suffer in silence, fearing judgement or being perceived as weak. Some older relatives may downplay their struggles, reinforcing stigma and discouraging open dialogue. There is a significant link between breastfeeding success rates and postpartum depression: depression can hinder breastfeeding, and breastfeeding challenges can deepen depression. (Freepik pic) Another key stressor is limited maternity leave. Malaysian women in both public and private sectors typically return to work within 90 days after childbirth, with little time to establish a consistent breastfeeding routine. Many workplaces lack breastfeeding-friendly policies, such as designated lactation rooms, proper storage, or flexible breaks for mothers to express milk. Moreover, new mothers often experience emotional exhaustion when torn between workplace responsibilities and their desire to continue breastfeeding. This increases anxiety and frequently leads to the early cessation of breastfeeding. The importance of support systems So, what can be done? Structured counselling and peer support groups have been shown to improve outcomes for both breastfeeding and maternal mental health. Partner and family support, in particular, can help mothers navigate the emotional ups and downs. Organisations such as the Malaysian Breastfeeding Peer Counsellor Association offer mother-to-mother support in safe environments. Such efforts have been proven to reduce postpartum depression and increase breastfeeding success. Several key steps should be prioritised. Mental health screening must be integrated into postnatal-care routines to identify women who are at risk of emotional distress early on. Healthcare providers must be trained to ensure more empathetic and comprehensive care. Access to peer support groups and counselling hotlines can provide mothers with timely guidance. Equally important is for workplaces to adopt breastfeeding-friendly policies – providing adequate time, private spaces, and a culture that supports working mums. By fostering a more empathetic and inclusive system, we can empower mothers, support their choices, and protect their mental well-being – because a healthy mother is the foundation of a healthy family. This article was written by Dr Malar Kandasamy, senior lecturer in obstetrics and gynaecology, and associate professor Dr Ganesh Ramachandran, head of the School of Medicine, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences at Taylors University.
Zawya
6 days ago
- Health
- Zawya
Eritrea: World Breastfeeding Week Observed at National Level
World Breastfeeding Week is being observed from 1 to 7 August with various activities under the theme 'Prioritize Breastfeeding – Create Sustainable Support System.' At a national-level ceremony organized today in Asmara, Sister Amleset Hagos from the Ministry of Health stated that breastfeeding protects against various diseases, supports physical and mental development, contains all essential nutrients, and ensures the future health of infants. Sister Amleset also called on all institutions to establish daycare centers to ease the burden on breastfeeding mothers. Mr. Abdulah Mohammed Yosuf, UNICEF Representative in Eritrea, noted that according to the 2010 Eritrea Public Health Survey, over 90% of children are breastfed within the first hour, and 69% are exclusively breastfed for six months. These achievements have significantly contributed to reducing neonatal and child mortality, placing Eritrea among the global leaders in breastfeeding practices. At the discussion forum moderated by the Association of Medical Doctors of Eritrea, female doctors shared their experiences with participants, focusing on the general benefits of breastfeeding, maternity leave, the importance of establishing daycare centers at institutions, and support for breastfeeding mothers in the workplace. Awards were also presented to winners of the general knowledge competitions conducted during the week. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.
The Courier
13-05-2025
- Health
- The Courier
Sit-in protest after 'humiliated' mum told to stop breastfeeding at Stirling sports centre
A group of mothers have staged a sit-in demonstration at a Stirling sports centre after a woman was told she was not allowed to breastfeed. Nine parents brought their children to The Peak on Tuesday to raise awareness of the legislation protecting breastfeeding mothers. Under the Breastfeeding etc. (Scotland) Act 2005, it is an offence to stop someone from feeding a child under the age of two in a public place. The mother, who wishes to remain anonymous, visited the Forthside Way sports centre last Thursday. While feeding her baby by the pool, a male member of staff told her husband she was not allowed to breastfeed. The family immediately left, and after complaining to The Peak, were told an investigation was underway. Active Stirling has since apologised and plan to ensure all staff are trained on upholding these rights. The mum-of-one described it as a 'humiliating' experience. She told The Courier: 'I was definitely quite shocked. I was embarrassed and ashamed. I felt like I'd done something wrong. 'It was in the view of other parents and babies and other children in their swimming lessons. 'Members of staff and observers in the viewing area could see too.' She also worries that such experiences could lead to new mothers becoming isolated and struggling with their mental health. Unsure if she was in the wrong, the woman turned to Forth Valley Breastfeeding Network. The group were 'upset' and informed her the law was on her side. Other mothers say they have previously breastfed in The Peak and there were no signs prohibiting breastfeeding in the pool area. However, another woman revealed she had experienced a similar situation at the sports centre. The group came together at The Peak to stop the stigmatisation of breastfeeding. Active Stirling's head of facilities met with the group and issued an apology to the mother. One parent at the sit-in told The Courier she felt 'angry' over the situation. She said: 'It's so wrong. You're allowed to feed your baby – it's the law. 'I'm here in solidarity. I was really angry that had happened.' An Active Stirling spokesperson said: 'Active Stirling would like to express our sincere regret and concern at the experience described by a valued customer in an incident which occurred on Thursday 8 May 2025. 'We are deeply sorry to hear of the upset and distress this incident has caused the customer to whom we have promptly and unreservedly apologised. 'We are committed to undertaking an immediate full and thorough investigation into our employee training and operating procedures around breastfeeding to ensure no similar such incident occurs again in the future. 'We fully acknowledge the legal rights of breastfeeding parents as protected by the Breastfeeding etc. (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Equality Act 2010. 'We are entirely committed to upholding those rights, and we have always strived to be champions of inclusive, respectful, and supportive environments for all service users — especially breastfeeding mothers and young families.'
