Beyond the Breast: The Benefits, Pressures and Realities of Breastfeeding in Saint Lucia

Public health messages often say breastfeeding is one of the best ways for a mother to give her child a healthy start. Breast milk offers important nutrients in the first months, contains antibodies that protect against common childhood illnesses, and keeps providing value as the child grows. The World Health Organisation recommends breastfeeding only for the first six months, then adding other foods while continuing to breastfeed for up to two years or longer.However, following these recommendations can be much more complicated in real life.