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Motion · S6M-05019 · 15 Jun 2022

Scottish Breastfeeding Week Heralds the Many Benefits

Lodged by Finlay Carson (Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party) Standard Motion 30 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament recognises that Scottish Breastfeeding Week ran from 13 to 19 June 2022; notes research showing that breastfeeding provides the best nutrition for babies and young children and supports children’s health in the short and longer term; believes that breastfeeding protects babies against a whole range of serious illnesses, including gastroenteritis and respiratory infections in infancy, as well as cardiovascular disease, asthma and diabetes later in life; further believes that breastfeeding reduces the mother’s risk of some cancers, and ensures that all mothers and babies are supported to form a strong loving relationship; considers that breastfeeding is easier, cheaper and simply less trouble than bottle feeding; welcomes reports that overall breastfeeding rates continue to increase in Scotland, which it understands is mainly due to an increase in mixed breast and formula feeding; recognises the latest statistics from Public Health Scotland that show almost two thirds of babies (66%) born in Scotland in 2020-21 were breastfed for at least some time after their birth, while more than half of babies (55%) were breastfed at 10 to 14 days of age, which is an increase from 44% in 2002-3; notes that current guidance recommends that babies should receive breast milk for the first six months of life before the introduction of solid foods; welcomes the support provided by many NHS boards across Scotland in offering support and information through dedicated breastfeeding groups that provide peer support and help to encourage new mums to experience breastfeeding, and acknowledges that, for some, breastfeeding can be a tough challenge and not always possible due to a variety of reasons, including health issues.

Supporters (30)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.