Complexity of Breastfeeding on Child/Maternal Health and Counseling Intervention

Abstract

This chapter is a critical review of the complexities of breastfeeding and its attending effects on the health of the Mother and Child. The researcher employs a historical research approach to gather both theoretical and empirical facts on this issue. It was discovered that in spite of the pragmatic and frantic efforts by different individuals, organizations, governments and non-governmental bodies in establishing a universal, healthy and safest method of breastfeeding through research, publications, workshops and so on, based on the unavoidable and uncompromising importance and benefits to maternal and child health, it is on record that the maternal behaviour is still obviously at variance to the acceptability of full breastfeeding as promulgated and declared by World Health Organization (WHO). A serious, dedicated, pragmatic and coordinated counseling approach is therefore recommended to be adopted to revive and strengthening a positive behaviour in women to foster positive attitude towards breastfeeding to guarantee 100% morbidity and mortality rate in Maternal and Child health.