Breastfeeding Rate Declining in Nepal, Health Ministry Implements Strategies
Summary
Breastfeeding rates in Nepal have declined to 56 percent for exclusive breastfeeding up to six months, prompting the Health Ministry to implement strategies like Human Milk Banks and deployment of trained health workers to promote breastfeeding.
Key Points
- Breastfeeding rates in Nepal have dropped to 56 percent for exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months and early initiation within one hour after birth.
- Factors contributing to the decline include increased Cesarean deliveries, separation of mother and newborn post-surgery, and social misconceptions about breastfeeding affecting physical appearance.
- The government has initiated programs such as Human Milk Banks in major hospitals and trained nurses to assist mothers in breastfeeding techniques.
- Enforcement of the Act on Substitutes for Breast Milk and public awareness campaigns are underway to promote the health benefits of breastfeeding for both infants and mothers.
