As the world observes World Breastfeeding Week (August 1–7), Mumbai doctors are urging mothers and families to recognize breastfeeding as one of the most powerful and cost-effective interventions for improving newborn survival and long-term health.
Despite growing awareness, many infants still miss out on exclusive breastfeeding during the crucial first six months of life due to misinformation, social stigma, work-related challenges, and inadequate family support.
According to health experts, breast milk is a complete source of nutrition that provides the perfect balance of nutrients while protecting babies against infections, diarrhoea, pneumonia, allergies, obesity, and several chronic illnesses later in life. Breastfeeding also strengthens immunity, promotes healthy brain development, and creates a lifelong emotional bond between mother and child. For mothers, breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, helps recovery after childbirth, and supports emotional well-being.
Dr. Nitu Mundhra, Consultant Neonatologist & Paediatrician and Lactation Consultant at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, emphasized that successful breastfeeding begins immediately after birth and requires encouragement from healthcare professionals as well as family members.
"Breastfeeding is not merely a feeding choice—it is a baby's first vaccine and the strongest foundation for lifelong health. Initiating breastfeeding within the first hour after birth and continuing exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months can dramatically reduce newborn illnesses and improve overall growth and development. Every mother deserves skilled lactation support, empathy, and confidence during this journey. At Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, we believe that when a mother is empowered, a healthier generation is born."
Experts at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road also highlight that fathers, grandparents, employers, and society play an equally important role in creating a breastfeeding-friendly environment. Timely counselling, workplace support, maternity care, and access to certified lactation consultants can significantly improve breastfeeding success rates.
Similarly, according to experts at Apex hospital, the first hour after birth—often referred to as the "Golden Hour"—is one of the most critical periods in a newborn's life. Breastfeeding during this time helps protect babies against infections, improves survival, strengthens immunity, and establishes successful long-term breastfeeding. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months provides complete nutrition, supports healthy brain development, and significantly reduces the risk of respiratory illnesses, diarrhoeal diseases, obesity, diabetes, and allergies later in life.
Breastfeeding also offers substantial health benefits for mothers. It promotes faster recovery after childbirth, helps the uterus return to its normal size, supports emotional well-being, and lowers the long-term risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
Dr. Rasika Wagh Jadhav , Consultant Gynaecologist, Apex Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, said: "The first hour after birth offers a unique opportunity to give every baby the healthiest possible start in life. Early breastfeeding provides vital antibodies that protect newborns from infections, strengthens immunity, and supports healthy growth and development. Breastfeeding is a natural process, but mothers need the right guidance, reassurance, and encouragement to begin their journey with confidence. Early counselling during pregnancy and support immediately after delivery can make a significant difference."
Dr. Rasika Wagh Jadhav , Consultant Gynaecologist further added Apex Group of Hospitals also emphasizes that breastfeeding should never be viewed as the mother's responsibility alone. Families, employers, and healthcare professionals all play an important role in creating an environment where mothers feel supported and empowered. Many breastfeeding challenges, including poor latching, pain, misconceptions, lack of confidence, inadequate maternity support, or the early introduction of formula feeds, can be effectively addressed through antenatal education, timely lactation counselling, immediate post-delivery assistance, and continued follow-up by trained healthcare professionals. Strengthening these support systems not only improves breastfeeding success but also contributes to healthier mothers, healthier babies, and stronger communities
On the occasion of World Breastfeeding Week, Mumbai doctors encourage expectant mothers and new parents to seek professional guidance early, address breastfeeding concerns without hesitation, and make informed choices that give every newborn the healthiest possible beginning in life. The hospital continues to promote evidence-based neonatal care and comprehensive lactation support to ensure that every child receives the best start from the very first day.