Some Ideas for the Role of General Practitioners in Protecting Breastfeeding

GPs are the first contacts for all patients…. are family confidantes…relied upon for every little problem (medical and non-medical)…their influence on patients and thus society is very strong.

This influence can be put to many positive uses…one of which is promotion and protection of breastfeeding.

GPs have a responsibility to the society just as all other health professionals…must be exercised to not only treat, but also prevent illness.

Breastfeeding can prevent mortality in 1.5 million infants world wide every year by preventing diarrheal deaths, and those due to respiratory infections. It prevents malnutrition in infants especially in third world countries and poor households where nutritious food supplements are scarce.

What can GPs do?
a) Learn about benefits of breastfeeding, through books, seminars and lactation management courses.
b) Commit themselves to talking with all expectant and new mothers about the benefits of breastfeeding, however briefly.
c) Encourage their patients to deliver in baby friendly hospitals.