Group aims to boost provincial breastfeeding rates

The provincial government has teamed up with the Baby-Friendly Council of Newfoundland and Labrador to promote the benefits of breastfeeding.

About 100 supporters kicked off World Breastfeeding Week with an event at Confederation Building in St. John's Friday hosted by Baby-Friendly NL and its partners.

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Organizer Janine Woodrow says rates have doubled in the last 30 years as more and more women in the province are choosing to breastfeed.

"Today we recognize exclusive breastfeeders, mamas who pump their breast milk, those who have breastfed in the past, and all of those that support our breast-feeding journeys," Woodrow said to the crowd.

"As a new mom myself, I recognize the dedication involved."

Newfoundland and Labrador has the lowest breastfeeding rates in the country, with areas like Carbonear, Clarenville and Burin holding rates significantly below the provincial average.

Woodrow, a registered dietitian, said this year the focus is on supporting families in the early weeks and months of breastfeeding.

"We need to celebrate the fact that more women have initiated breastfeeding, and we need to strive to better support families so that they can breastfeed longer."