Breastfeeding

Key Findings (July 2014)

In 2012/13, 57% of mothers in Wirral started breastfeeding at birth. By 6-8 weeks breastfeeding had reduced to just 31%
Over recent years the local breastfeeding rates have not reflected the increase that’s been seen nationally, resulting in a widening disparity between Wirral and the rest of England
Within Wirral the breastfeeding rates follow the pattern of deprivation, with the more deprived eastern wards having significantly lower levels of breastfeeding
The lowest breastfeeding rates are amongst young, white mothers from deprived areas
Insight work highlighted the need for more practical and honest information about breastfeeding to be given to mothers in the antenatal period
It also identified the importance of the first few breastfeeds in the maintenance of breastfeeding, with some women wanting intensive 1:1 support during this time
Women who stopped breastfeeding reported feelings of guilt and anxiety associated with stopping and some felt they had a lack of information to allow them to bottle feed safely
Locally, there are a large number of breastfeeding services and initiatives made available to parents. Wirral spends more per birth than the national average and yet has poorer outcomes in terms of breastfeeding initiation
The evidence base is far from conclusive as to which interventions are likely to be most effective, however some studies advocate taking a targeted, needs-led approach to breastfeeding support as oppose to providing more generic services

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