Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, with expertise in women’s reproductive health, pregnancy and childbirth, Dr Yves Kakudji, spoke about World Breastfeeding Week and the awareness that accompanies it.

Kakudji has been practising in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology for 11 years with extensive experience in both public and private healthcare settings. He studied and trained at the University of the Free State, where he completed a Master of Medicine (MMed) degree in Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

According to Kakudji, World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated internationally, observed in over 120 countries from August 1 to August 7. He added that the week commemorates the 1990 Innocenti Declaration, signed by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children’s Fund to promote, protect and support breastfeeding. This aims to improve infant and maternal health through the act of breastfeeding.

“The goal is to raise awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding, the need for better support systems for mothers, and encouraging maternity leave while promoting baby-friendly workplaces. Through this, we can highlight the role of communities and healthcare systems in supporting breastfeeding mothers,” Kakudji expressed.

He noted that breastfeeding is a crucial step during motherhood, providing the infant with essential nutrients. This ultimately strengthens the baby’s immune system and promotes bonding with its mother. Additionally, breastfeeding reduces the risk of infections, allergies, obesity, and even chronic conditions later in life.

For mothers, specifically, breastfeeding aids postpartum recovery while also reducing the risk of certain cancers.

“The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by continued breastfeeding with appropriate complementary foods up to two years and beyond, as long as mother and child wish,” he said.

While breastfeeding is generally safe and beneficial, some challenges can arise. As Kakudji explained, mothers may experience mastitis, cracked nipples, and blocked milk ducts, which can cause significant discomfort. Babies, on the other hand, may experience inadequate milk intake if they latch onto the nipple incorrectly.

He advised noting that certain circumstances mothers should not breastfeed. These include:

• If the mother has HIV and is not on antiretroviral treatment
• If she is using harmful medications or illicit drugs
• If she has untreated active tuberculosis
• If the baby has a rare metabolic disorder such as galactosemia

Kakudji highlighted some key challenges surrounding breastfeeding in South Africa, including limited maternity leave and workplace support. He also pointed out the stigma around breastfeeding in public.

Furthermore, he addressed a few myths surrounding breastfeeding.

• Myth 1: ‘If I don’t produce enough milk in the first few days, I should switch to formula’

“It’s normal for milk to come in gradually. Colostrum (the first milk) is enough for newborns,” he corrected.

• Myth 2: ‘Breastfeeding will ruin the shape of my breasts’

“Changes in breast shape are more linked to pregnancy and genetics, not breastfeeding.”

• Myth 3: ‘Breastfeeding is supposed to hurt’

Kakudji said, “Some tenderness is normal at first, but pain indicates a poor latch or other issue that needs attention.”