KUWAIT: Only about 10–12 percent of mothers in Kuwait practice exclusive breastfeeding, well below the global average of 30–40 percent, a health expert told KTV on Monday.
During an event held at The Avenues by The Kuwait Pediatric Association, specialists urged families to support breastfeeding as a foundation for a child’s physical, psychological and emotional development.
They emphasized that breastfeeding lowers the risk of childhood illnesses such as obesity and infections, while also providing psychological comfort and a sense of connection between mother and child. “Breastfeeding is not just food,” said Pharmacist Walaa Maarafi. “It’s emotional support, immune protection, and social closeness.”
The World Health Organization recommends that infants should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life to achieve optimal growth, development and health. Thereafter, to meet their evolving nutritional requirements, infants should receive nutritionally adequate and safe complementary foods, while continuing to breastfeed for up to two years or beyond.
Maarafi stressed that breastfeeding benefits mothers as well. “It speeds up recovery after childbirth, lowers the risk of certain cancers, and strengthens the emotional bond with the baby.”
But many women face social and cultural barriers. “The breastfeeding mother often finds herself in an environment that doesn’t give her enough support,” said Manar Ayash, an educator in maternal and child health. “There are not enough safe spaces for breastfeeding, and there are still cultural attitudes that discourage it.”
She noted that well-meaning family members can sometimes add pressure instead of offering support. “People might say, ‘Don’t exhaust yourself — just give the baby formula.’ But breastfeeding is not the mother’s responsibility alone. It’s a community responsibility.”
Ayash called for better prenatal education and involvement from spouses and families. “We always encourage couples to attend pre-birth classes together, especially those focused on breastfeeding. Emotional and practical support from a partner can make a big difference.” — Agencies
