Chapter 5 – Qualified Support to Build Confidence

Breastfeeding is a physiological function of the maternal body, and health issues in the mother or baby rarely make it impossible. In particular, there are very few cases in which a mother cannot produce enough milk to nourish her baby. Yet, more than a third of women who switch to formula milk within three months after giving birth say they do so because they believe they do not produce enough milk—highlighting a problem of misinformation and lack of confidence in their abilities.

Italian women want to breastfeed and are aware of how important it is for their children’s health. In fact, 96.5% of them express this intention during pregnancy. However, not all manage to fulfill this goal after birth. In the days following delivery, 91.7% actually breastfeed, but only 59.9% do so exclusively, without any formula. At three months postpartum, 72.3% of mothers breastfeed, 49.3% exclusively. At six months, 56.4% breastfeed, and only 6.4% exclusively (8).

To help new mothers fulfill their desire to breastfeed, they must be adequately supported. Clear information is needed during pregnancy, a favorable environment immediately after birth, skin-to-skin contact with the baby, early initiation of breastfeeding, rooming-in at the hospital, and qualified assistance to resolve any initial latch issues.

It is also essential that new mothers do not feel suddenly left alone once they return home. They should be able to rely on the support of their partner and family, as well as on home visits from a midwife and gatherings with other properly trained mothers to share experiences and challenges in a supportive, non-judgmental environment that fosters trust.

Surveys conducted over the years by the Istituto Superiore di Sanità (Italian National Institute of Health) confirm that the chances of exclusive breastfeeding at three months postpartum are higher if the mother attended prenatal classes, had rooming-in at the hospital, and joined postnatal support groups with midwives and other mothers.

Today, new mothers are often overwhelmed with unsolicited comments, opinions, and advice on any topic—especially breastfeeding. The quantity, quality, or taste of breast milk, along with the frequency and duration of feeds, are frequently questioned, often by those who should be offering help. When there is too much pressure and not enough support, a mother’s desire to breastfeed may not be enough. It’s not easy to ignore such remarks, especially when they fuel doubts and uncertainties that are completely normal after childbirth. But it’s important to trust oneself, to believe in one’s body’s ability to breastfeed, and in the undeniable quality of one’s own milk. At the same time, mothers should be aware that if particular difficulties arise, bottle feeding is always an option—and this does not mean giving up the meaningful experience of feeding.

When a mother breastfeeds her baby, a magical bond is created — made of eye contact, warmth, scents, and physical closeness: unique and memorable moments for both mother and baby as they get to know each other, understand each other, and connect. These feelings can also arise even if the baby is not directly nursing: if the mother holds the baby close to her breast in skin-to-skin contact, keeping them close and maintaining eye contact, whispering loving words—then the magic is there. With calm and serenity, free from guilt, the relationship between mother and baby is built from thousands of gestures, gazes, and gentle touches—turning everyday care into unforgettable moments that strengthen their bond.