Breastfeeding is a major public health issue. Breastmilk provides all the nutrients a baby needs for their first six months. Research studies also show that breastfeeding doesn't just help to protect infants from infection, but has other benefits such as reducing obesity and can help protect mothers from some diseases in later life. Although initiation of breastfeeding is improving, the numbers continue to drop rapidly in the first few weeks highlighting that women need the support of their midwives and health visitors when beginning breastfeeding and throughout their child's infancy. Based on the UNICEF UK BFI University learning outcomes, this newly updated textbook addresses the outcomes to ensure that students are equipped with the essential knowledge and skills to effectively promote and support breastfeeding mothers.

Putting breastfeeding into context -- Building relationships -- Anatomy and physiology of lactation -- Essential skills for practice -- Good practice to promote, initiate and support breastfeeding -- Management of common problems -- Supporting mothers with special needs -- Infants with special needs -- Alternative methods of infant feeding when breastfeeding is not possible -- Introducing solid foods -- Ongoing support for breastfeeding mothers -- Developing knowledge and skills to support breastfeeding mothers.