Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a unique process between mother and child. It provides many benefits for both babies and mothers. These are:
For the baby, breastfeeding:
- develops a close bond with mother;
- is associated with a reduced risk of ear infections, diarrhea, lung infections, diabetes, allergies and many other illnesses; and
- promotes brain development.
For the mother, breastfeeding:
- develops a close bond with baby;
- saves time, money and work;
- decreases the risk of developing osteoporosis; and
- reduces the risk of breast, endometrial and ovarian cancers.
The Department, with its partners, are working to promote, support and protect the practice of breastfeeding. Some of these activities include:
- an NWT - wide breastfeeding survey that is gathering information on breastfeeding and infant feeding practices that will improve programs for babies and mothers;
- working in partnership with the NWT Baby Friendly Initiative on community-based projects that promote, protect and support breastfeeding. For more information, contact the health promotion unit; and
- working towards community and hospital Baby-Friendly designations in the NWT. More information on this international and national initiative can be found on www.breastfeedingcanada.ca.