A Call to Improve Breastfeeding Education and Counseling in South Africa

Abstract

Despite the immense body of evidence demonstrating that breastfeeding is a significant predictor of infant, child, and maternal health, rates of exclusive breastfeeding in South Africa remain suboptimal. This paper delves into the importance of breastfeeding, briefly highlights the historical context of breastfeeding in South Africa, explains the roles of the formula market and the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the disparate rates of breastfeeding, and recommends policies to address these issues.