Breastfeeding Week – August 1-7, 2024

History of Breastfeeding Week

Breastfeeding Week is considered one of the largest joint campaigns undertaken by international organizations such as The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF. Organized by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA), it aims to promote the benefits of breastfeeding. World Breastfeeding Week has been celebrated since 1992 and includes annual themes such as healthcare systems and women. In 2016, the week aligned its mission with the Sustainable Development Goals (S.D.G.s) and began promoting various strategies to encourage breastfeeding. During the week, all communication platforms inform people on the issue and the interesting history surrounding breastfeeding that many are unaware of.

Did you know, in ancient Greece, the milk of a Greek goddess was thought to have special powers such as immortality? For instance, according to Greek mythology, Hera’s breast milk made Hercules invincible; it also formed the Milky Way. However, with time the popularity of breastfeeding drastically decreased, and women began turning to animal milk. In 15th-century Europe, cow’s or goat’s milk were often used but were considered lacking as they affected the health of the child. Later in the 18th century, flour or cereal mixed with broth was introduced as a breastmilk substitute. This too proved ineffective, and the search for alternatives for breast milk continued as many women were unable to produce milk naturally and needed another feeding option for their infants.

By the 19th century, infant formulas entered the market, and many women abandoned traditional breastfeeding. In the early 20th century, breastfeeding was even viewed negatively in several countries — that is, until doctors pointed out the effects of a lack of breast milk on a child. In the 1960s, breastfeeding experienced a revival and is promoted world-over even today.