title: [Breastfeeding: from physiology to practical aspects].
abstract: Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended up to 6 months of age, and may be continued in combination with a more diversified diet until 2 years of age. It represents the ideal natural diet for the newborn. The current change of maternity care policy and the adherence to the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) project, have been associated with a significant improvement of patient information. This positive aspect combined with the effect of perinatal education were major contributors for breastfeeding promotion. This article presents the physiology of breastfeeding and its practical aspects, useful for the family doctor. The doctor plays a central role both in the information, which might influence the choice of breastfeeding, and also in the support of the mother or her baby. The duration of breastfeeding represents the new goal to be emphasized. Lactating mothers should be encouraged to consult competent caregivers, including the family doctor in case of breastfeeding difficulties.
authors.affiliation: Clinique de la Maternité, C.H.U. Brugmann, Bruxelles. eliane.damis@chu-brugmann.be
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Damis
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Gucciardo
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Berrefas
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Goyens
mesh_terms: D001940:Breast / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology; D001942:Breast Feeding / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods; D000075202:Contraindications; D064420:Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007774:Lactation / Q000502:physiology*; D018811:Maternal Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects; D008895:Milk, Human / Q000502:physiology; D008954:Models, Biological; D009034:Mother-Child Relations; D012907:Smoking / Q000009:adverse effects