Lamaze International recognizes World Breastfeeding Week and National Breastfeeding Month with a press release and comments by Lamaze International President Michele Deck, in support of breastfeeding and recognition that barriers still exist that support continued breastfeeding of newborns, infants and beyond.

77% of new mothers initiate breastfeeding at birth and there has been increases in breastfeeding rates at six months and twelve months, according to the just released "Breastfeeding Report Card - United States 2012," published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Michele Deck explains the significant role childbirth educators have in helping new mothers prepare for and find support during their breastfeeding relationship with their child;

"While breastfeeding is natural, it doesn't always come naturally," said Deck. "Many moms have difficulties establishing breastfeeding and some of this may be due to birth practices that aren't the best for moms and babies. Pregnant women can help to push for the best birth and breastfeeding experiences by using childbirth education to understand the most common barriers and how to navigate them."

"Scientific research shows breastfeeding helps ensure babies are well nourished, protected against disease, and given the best chance to develop optimally. What women need most often is good information and support to get breastfeeding off to a good start, and to help them reach their breastfeeding goals."

Valuable resources and information for expecting parents, like Lamaze's Push for Your Baby, are aimed at giving expecting parents the tools to push for the best care practices for moms and babies, including those that support breastfeeding education and awareness.

Lamaze calls out the following top five breastfeeding barriers within the first 24 hours of birth to help expecting moms prepare for the best breastfeeding experience:

1. Unnecessary birth interventions
2. Separating mom and baby
3. Use of pacifiers or other artificial nipples before breastfeeding is well established
4. Supplementing breastmilk with formula
5. Lack of postpartum breastfeeding support

The Lamaze Six Healthy Birth Practices also offer evidenced based practices that help get mom and baby off to the right start for breastfeeding, after the labor and birth process is completed.

Additionally, Michele Deck offers a helpful Q&A video on breastfeeding options for working women, that you may want to share in your breastfeeding classes.

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