India’s Exclusive Breastfeeding Rates Decline.

The missing link in India’s maternal health story Despite India making significant strides in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in recent years, the country continues to grapple with a crucial aspect of maternal health: exclusive breastfeeding. According to the sixth National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6), the percentage of infants exclusively breastfed for the first six months has declined from 39% in 2019-21 to just 21% in 2020-22. This marked decrease raises concern about the country’s healthcare system and its ability to support new mothers in the critical postpartum period..

The data highlights a stark reality – India is falling short in providing adequate postnatal care and support to women. With 62% of pregnant women reportedly having some or all prenatal care from skilled health care providers, it is disconcerting to note that just 21% of newborns exclusively breastfeed for six months. Studies indicate that the lack of skilled postnatal care, inadequate knowledge about optimal breastfeeding techniques, and a shortage of lactation consultants play significant roles in this decline..

Another key factor is the social stigma attached to breastfeeding. In many rural areas and some urban pockets, it’s common to find women hiding to breastfeed or feeling embarrassed to nurse their babies in public. This social norm can make breastfeeding seem like a private and personal issue rather than a public health concern that requires greater awareness and support..

Moreover, the limited social protection available to new mothers who require paid maternal leave to nurse their babies, creates a culture that discourages exclusive breastfeeding. India’s maternity benefits also lag behind those of developed countries. Currently, the paid maternity leave is just 26 weeks, which falls short of the minimum 18 weeks’ paid maternity leave recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO)..

While some private companies have extended paid leave policies, this remains the exception rather than the norm. The lack of comprehensive maternity benefits can significantly reduce the likelihood of women being able to exclusively breastfeed for at least six months. Another critical area of concern is the lack of workplace protection and support for breastfeeding mothers..

Many companies in India lack facilities such as dedicated lactation rooms and breaks for feeding sessions. The absence of a clear policy framework and inadequate enforcement of existing laws has meant that breastfeeding-friendly workplaces remain the exception in India. The data from NFHS-6 paints a similar picture – 72% of working women reported experiencing difficulties or having an absence of breastfeeding facilities in their workplaces..

The absence of a supportive work environment can make breastfeeding an unbearable task for many working women, making exclusive breastfeeding a distant dream. The Indian government has implemented several schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Matritva Sahyog Yojana to promote maternal health, but the impact is yet to be seen. Experts say that a more comprehensive approach is needed to address the issue, one that integrates social, economic and environmental factors..

They also recommend investing in programs that enhance breastfeeding knowledge among new mothers, and provide economic support to help women balance work and family responsibilities. Experts in the field of public health suggest that the healthcare policy needs a fundamental shift, prioritizing women’s empowerment, postnatal care, and access to skilled healthcare providers. Additionally, governments and employers must recognize the benefits of extended maternity leave periods and create an enabling environment that supports breastfeeding..

In order to bridge the gap in postnatal support, healthcare professionals, governments, civil society groups, and employers must collaborate in developing breastfeeding-friendly policies and programs. This might entail revising existing laws and policies to make them more breastfeeding-friendly, and also promoting community-based support systems that encourage new mothers to breastfeed. According to various studies, women from lower socioeconomic backgrounds face significant barriers when it comes to breastfeeding..

Limited access to quality health care services, inadequate facilities for newborn care, and lower awareness about breastfeeding benefits in rural and urban slums make exclusive breastfeeding a huge challenge. While the decline in exclusive breastfeeding rates presents a setback for India’s maternal health goals, it serves as an opportunity to reevaluate and strengthen the country’s healthcare system. It’s imperative for policymakers and public health experts to prioritize the development and implementation of effective interventions that address these gaps, creating a supportive environment for new mothers to exclusively breastfeed their babies..

Ultimately, India’s struggle to maintain the momentum towards breastfeeding highlights a broader challenge: achieving equitable healthcare access across its diverse population. The government needs to create policies that bridge this gap, providing equal opportunities for all women to have the support they need to breastfeed their babies and to access quality healthcare services throughout pregnancy and postpartum. In conclusion, the decline in exclusive breastfeeding rates in India raises critical questions about the country’s healthcare priorities and commitment to the health and well-being of its new mothers..

With a deep understanding of the multifaceted factors contributing to this decline, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and governments must come together to strengthen postnatal care and support infrastructure, empowering women to make informed choices about breastfeeding..