An interesting article appeared in the Irish Times on Tuesday about Breastfeeding – or lack there of, in Ireland.
Breastfeeding in Australia – Comparison
Some interesting comparisons can be seen between Australia and Ireland in terms of breastfeeding rates.
The most recent statistics for Australia, from the “Australia’s Health 2012” data shows that 96% rate of breastfeeding initiation. In Ireland, this same rate is only 56%.
The rate of breastfeeding by 4 months of age is 46% for Australia and only 16% for Ireland.
Although our rates for breastfeeding are significantly better than those in Ireland, we still have a way to go.
Australian Mums tend to start out well, and then we see a rapid decline in the first five months of breastfeeding. As mentioned, initiation of breastfeeding is 96%, then after only one week, this drops to 80%.
By one month it is down to 71%, four months to 46% and by five months as low as only 28%.
Australian Government Recommendations
The Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend exclusive breastfeeding of infants until six months of age, with the introduction of solid foods at this time, and continued breastfeeding until twelve months of age and beyond, if both mother and baby wish.
Please find the full article on the link below:
Please contact our office on 02 9251 8550, or ask Dr Morris at your next scheduled visit.
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If you’re interested to learn more, here’s a collection of resources.
- Dr Morris Breastfeeding and Lactation Services, we offer free consultations for new mothers and their families.
- For more information about Baby-Led Breastfeeding
