World Breastfeeding Week: Supporting Mothers Through the Breastfeeding Journey
Every year from 1–7 August, World Breastfeeding Week raises awareness about the importance of breastfeeding and, just as importantly, the support mothers need to make informed feeding choices.
The 2026 theme, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” focuses on building on the support systems and practices that help mothers and babies thrive.
While breastfeeding is natural, that doesn’t always mean it comes naturally. For many mothers, the first few days and weeks can involve questions, uncertainty and unexpected challenges.
Knowing what to expect—and when to seek professional advice—can make the journey feel far less overwhelming.
Why Is Breastfeeding Important?
Breast milk provides babies with nutrients needed for healthy growth and development while also supporting the developing immune system.
The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for approximately the first six months of life, followed by the introduction of appropriate complementary foods while breastfeeding continues up to two years of age or beyond, where possible and appropriate.
Breastfeeding can provide benefits for both baby and mother, but every mother and baby is different. Medical circumstances, milk supply, medication, work commitments and many other factors can influence how a baby is fed.
The goal should always be a healthy baby and a supported, informed mother.
Breastfeeding Challenges Are Common
Many new mothers expect breastfeeding to happen instinctively from the moment their baby is born.
In reality, both mother and baby are learning.
Common concerns during breastfeeding can include:
- Difficulty getting the baby to latch
- Painful or cracked nipples
- Concerns about milk supply
- Breast engorgement
- Blocked milk ducts
- Breast tenderness
- Questions about expressing and storing breast milk
- Uncertainty about whether baby is feeding enough
- Concerns about medications while breastfeeding
- Returning to work while continuing to breastfeed
Asking for help early can often prevent a small problem from becoming a much more stressful one.
Is My Baby Getting Enough Milk?
This is one of the most common concerns among breastfeeding mothers.
Babies naturally vary in how frequently and how long they feed, particularly during periods of rapid growth.
Rather than relying only on how full your breasts feel or how long your baby feeds, healthcare professionals may consider several factors, including the baby’s weight gain, feeding behaviour and number of wet nappies.
If you are concerned that your baby isn’t feeding effectively, isn’t gaining weight or appears unusually sleepy or unwell, speak to a healthcare professional.
When Breast Pain May Need Medical Attention
Some tenderness can occur, particularly while you and your baby are getting used to breastfeeding. However, significant or worsening breast pain should not simply be ignored.
Seek medical advice if you develop symptoms such as:
- A painful, swollen or hot area of the breast
- Significant redness
- Fever
- Chills
- Flu-like symptoms
- Increasing pain
- Discharge that concerns you
These symptoms can sometimes indicate inflammation or infection such as mastitis and may require medical assessment.
Can You Take Medication While Breastfeeding?
Another frequent concern is whether medicines are safe to use while breastfeeding.
Many medications can be used during breastfeeding, while others may need to be changed, adjusted or avoided.
This is why it is important not to stop prescribed medication—or begin using a new medicine, herbal product or supplement—without first discussing it with a healthcare professional.
A doctor can assess the specific medication, dosage, your medical history and the age and health of your baby before advising you.
Returning to Work Doesn’t Necessarily Mean Breastfeeding Has to Stop
Returning to work can be one of the biggest practical challenges for breastfeeding mothers.
Planning ahead may help.
Depending on your circumstances, this could include:
- Learning how to express breast milk
- Establishing an expressing routine
- Understanding safe breast milk storage
- Discussing feeding routines with your baby’s caregiver
- Speaking to your employer about expressing breaks and a suitable private space
Every mother’s situation is different, so finding a routine that is realistic and sustainable is more important than trying to achieve perfection.
Supporting Mothers Without Judgement
Breastfeeding discussions can sometimes become emotionally charged.
Some mothers breastfeed exclusively, some combine breast and formula feeding, and others may be unable or choose not to breastfeed.
Healthcare support should focus on providing accurate information, identifying any health concerns and helping mothers make safe decisions for themselves and their babies.
A mother who feels supported and able to ask questions openly is far better positioned to make informed healthcare decisions.
How TruMD Can Help
Questions about breastfeeding don’t always require a trip to a doctor’s waiting room.
Through TruMD, mothers can speak to a qualified healthcare professional online about concerns such as:
- Breast pain or possible mastitis
- Medication while breastfeeding
- General postpartum health concerns
- Fever or illness while breastfeeding
- Concerns about symptoms affecting mother or baby
- Whether further assessment or an in-person consultation is required
Where a physical examination or additional treatment is necessary, your healthcare provider can advise you on the appropriate next step.
Every Breastfeeding Journey Is Different
World Breastfeeding Week is not only about encouraging breastfeeding. It’s also an opportunity to recognise the importance of giving mothers the information, healthcare and support they need.
You don’t have to figure everything out on your own.
If something doesn’t feel right or you’re unsure whether a symptom is normal, asking a healthcare professional is always a good place to start.
Speak to a Healthcare Professional
Concerned about your health while breastfeeding or unsure whether you need medical attention?
TruMD makes it easy to consult with a qualified healthcare professional online, wherever you are.
Good healthcare starts with getting the right advice at the right time.
