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Summary :

In France, breastfeeding rates are low, with only 10% of mothers still breastfeeding at 6 months, far from the WHO recommendations. This delay is explained by maternity leave that is too short, persistent prejudices, and a lack of support. Abroad, countries such as Sweden, Germany, and regions of Asia promote breastfeeding through favorable policies and appropriate support. To make progress, France could extend maternity leave, strengthen support, raise public awareness, and set up spaces dedicated to breastfeeding.

In France, it is legal for mothers to breastfeed in public places, in accordance with Article L. 1111-1 of the Public Health Code. However, the absence of explicit legislation leads to varied interpretations and exposes mothers to comments or discrimination. Prejudices, such as the sexualization of breasts, lack of education or social discomfort, still make breastfeeding in public taboo.

Denying a mother the right to breastfeed in public is considered discrimination under Article 225-1 of the Penal Code, and victims can file a complaint or contact the Ombudsman. Comparatively, countries such as the United Kingdom and the Nordic countries are more normalizing this practice.

To improve the situation, awareness campaigns, training of professionals, creation of adapted spaces, and promotion of breastfeeding in the media are proposed. The objective is to guarantee mothers a caring environment to exercise their right to breastfeed without fear or judgment.

Returning to work while breastfeeding is possible with good organization. Prepare yourself in advance: find out about your rights, familiarize yourself with the breast pump, and build up a milk reserve. Talk to your employer to adjust your schedule and provide a dedicated space. Maintain morning and evening feedings, plan breaks to express your milk, and store it properly. Choose a suitable childcare method and take care of your well-being. Be kind to yourself and adapt your pace if necessary. The main thing is to find a balance that suits you.

The nursing pillow is an essential tool to improve comfort and support during breastfeeding. It offers significant benefits for both mother and baby, such as ergonomic support, correct posture, and optimal positioning to facilitate latching. This versatile pillow is also useful during pregnancy, to relieve lower back pain or support the belly during sleep.

A good nursing pillow should have a suitable shape (U or C), be made with hypoallergenic materials, offer ideal firmness and be easy to maintain thanks to washable covers.

Beyond breastfeeding, it is used to support the back during pregnancy, keep the baby in a semi-sitting position, or as a travel accessory. It is therefore essential to accompany mothers throughout maternity, making each moment more comfortable and enjoyable.

Breastfeeding provides nutrition that is perfectly adapted to the baby's needs, enriches its intestinal microbiota, strengthens its immunity and adapts in real time to its age and health. For the mother, it promotes postpartum recovery, helps with weight loss, reduces the risk of certain cancers and improves mental well-being. It is a natural and precious gesture that benefits both health and the unique bond between mother and child.