BBF provides evidence-based data

A systematic survey of the status of breastfeeding promotion in Germany was carried out starting from September 2017 within the scope of the international research project entitled Becoming Breastfeeding Friendly (BBF). A committee of policy makers, academic experts and practitioners systematically researched and analysed data on all important aspects of breastfeeding promotion, based on 54 international BBF assessment criteria.

This led to concrete starting points for improving the general framework of breastfeeding in Germany. Based on these results, BBF experts developed a number of recommendations for the promotion of breastfeeding. With the additional help of several external experts, a consensus on eight specific recommendations to promote breastfeeding in Germany was reached. They have since led to the establishment of a National Strategy for the Promotion of Breastfeeding.

We all can do our part

These recommendations are aimed at all stakeholders who can contribute to making these recommendations a reality. They specifically concern policy makers from all aspects of breastfeeding promotion, facilitators with contact to (expectant) families, media professionals and employers. Everyone can contribute to creating a breastfeeding-friendly environment for (expectant) families.

The promotion of breastfeeding involves all sectors of society. The recommendations can make a substantial contribution to a healthy upbringing, health promotion as well as preventive healthcare in  children. They specifically focus on families living in stressful situations as these families often have an increased need for information and support. To achieve synergies, these recommendations should also be coupled with the recommendations for measures to promote breastfeeding set out in the National Health Goal (Nationales Gesundheitsziel) "Health before and after birth”(Gesundheit rund um die Geburt).

Let's do this

A systematic improvement of the general framework for breastfeeding aims to help to reduce both individual and structural barriers to breastfeeding. It would allow even more women to inform themselves and make their own decisions about breastfeeding. At the same time, breastfeeding mothers would receive professional support throughout the entire breastfeeding period and their actions would be strengthened. A variety of lifestyles and life circumstances of (expectant) families and their social circles must be considered. Each woman's individual decision for or against breastfeeding must be respected. An attitude of participation and respect towards each individual woman should be the cornerstone of all measures, including all public communication activities.

Signed by the experts of the BBF committee