This policy recognizes the biological, health, social, cultural, environmental and economic importance of breastfeeding. It also provides direction for priorities and action for the Maltese government at all levels working in partnership with mothers and society to promote, protect, support and maintain breastfeeding. The instrument updates the previous policy in line with current scientific evidence on the short and long term benefits of breast feeding to the mother and child, to achieve higher exclusive breastfeeding rates for the first six months and thereafter for breastfeeding to continue with appropriate complementary foods. In this framework, the objective is to create the necessary supportive environment and enhance the appropriate culture to facilitate the individual’s choice for breastfeeding in order to achieve optimal infant and young child feeding by supporting all mothers who decide to breastfeed in: initiating breastfeeding; maintaining breastfeeding exclusively for first six months; and continuing breastfeeding with appropriate complementary foods until two years and beyond, or for as long as the mother and baby wish. Policy initiatives encompass: 1) development and implementation of legislation and policies regulating the marketing of breastmilk substitutes; 2) encouraging a breastfeeding policy in maternity hospitals based on the principles of the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI); 3) train health care professionals in the promotion and management of breastfeeding; 4) development of strategies for the promotion and support of breast feeding in the community (antenatal, childbirth, postnatal, in the community, support groups and at the workplace). Specific indicators are outlined to ensure monitoring of the implemenation of the National Breastfeeding Policy and Action Plan.
Malta · 2015-01-01