In France, breastfeeding remains a complex and sometimes taboo subject. Although its benefits are widely recognized, breastfeeding rates in France are much lower than those observed in other countries. What are the obstacles to breastfeeding in France, and how can we explain this delay compared to other nations?

Early drop in breastfeeding rates

About 70% of mothers initiate breastfeeding at birth, but this figure drops rapidly to 25% after 6 weeks and only 10% at 6 months. These statistics are far from the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO), which advocates exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months of age.

Structural and cultural obstacles

1. Maternity leave is too short

With only 16 weeks of maternity leave, many mothers are finding themselves trying to wean their babies when they return to work. The lack of support to express milk at work makes this transition even more difficult.

2. The weight of prejudices

Breastfeeding is often perceived as restrictive or unmodern. Clichés such as:

● “Breastfeeding is tiring”

● “The bottle is more practical”

● “It is difficult to breastfeed in public spaces”

● “the baby will be glued to you all the time”

● “the baby will have more difficulty falling asleep alone and sleeping alone”

discourage many women, often due to lack of information or

awareness.

3. A lack of support

Lactation consultations or prenatal classes specific to breastfeeding are still rarely offered in France. Young mothers often find themselves left to their own devices when faced with the difficulties associated with breastfeeding.

Inspiring examples from abroad

Some countries have much higher breastfeeding rates thanks to supportive policies and practices:

● The Nordic countries:

In Sweden or Norway, more than 90% of mothers breastfeed.

birth and often continue for up to 6 months. These results are explained by long and well-paid parental leave, combined with personalized support.

● Germany:

Free lactation consultations and national campaigns

information helps encourage breastfeeding.

● Countries in Asia and Africa:

 Breastfeeding is often culturally and economically valued, with rates reaching up to 98% at birth.

Solutions to make up for the delay in France

To improve breastfeeding rates and support mothers who wish to breastfeed, several initiatives can be considered:

 1. Extend maternity leave

Providing more time for mothers to breastfeed without the pressure of returning to work

would help extend the duration of breastfeeding.

2. Improve support

Train health professionals to better support mothers in their breastfeeding project and increase the number of specialized lactation consultations.

3. Change mentalities

Launch information campaigns to raise public awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding and deconstruct prejudices.

4. Set up breastfeeding spaces

Create breastfeeding spaces in businesses, transport and public places so that mothers can breastfeed or express milk with complete peace of mind.

Conclusion: Supporting mothers’ choice

Catching up on breastfeeding is a challenge that requires collective efforts. By changing public policies and educating mentalities, France can offer better support to mothers and promote this natural gesture.

Milky hour is your ally in this process, with adapted products and practical advice for all stages of your breastfeeding. Share your experiences and ideas to improve breastfeeding support in France in the comments!

Elisabeth Mathes