World Breastfeeding Week in Munich: city highlights free advice for families

World Breastfeeding Week runs from 28 September to 4 October under the motto "Breastfeeding. Your superpower". In Munich, the city is using the week to remind families that free breastfeeding advice is available through its Health Department, including home visits.

The week aims to raise awareness of the importance of breastfeeding for mother and child. Breast milk is always fresh, hygienic and available at any time when out and about. It contains important antibodies that help protect newborns from illness. Breastfeeding also benefits the mother's health and strengthens the bond between mother and child. For these reasons, professional bodies recommend feeding babies only breast milk for the first six months.

Mayor Verena Dietl said: "During this special week we are celebrating the importance of breastfeeding for a healthy future for mother and child. Promoting a loving connection that strengthens and protects mother and child and lets them grow together is very close to my heart. Breastfeeding is also particularly important to the München Klinik. In the maternity units of München Klinik Schwabing and Harlaching, breastfeeding is encouraged right from birth."

Beatrix Zurek, head of the city's Health Department, said: "Breastfeeding problems usually arise from a lack of support or from uncertainty. I am very pleased that our health and children's nurses in the Health Department advise young families on breastfeeding free of charge as part of their home visiting service, both in private households and in accommodation centres."

Families can also get quick advice on breastfeeding and baby care by calling the Health Department's service line on 089 - 233-74733 or by emailing [email protected].