Stillförderung

Stillförderung refers to the promotion of breastfeeding through policies, programs and practices designed to help mothers initiate and sustain breastfeeding and to create environments that support it. It is a public health objective grounded in evidence that breastfeeding benefits infant nutrition and immune protection and offers health advantages to mothers as well.

Global guidance is provided by the World Health Organization and UNICEF, notably through the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, which promotes the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding and related measures to support mothers in the hospital setting. Stillförderung also includes community- and workplace-based support to strengthen breastfeeding continuation after discharge.

Key components include support for early initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour after birth, exclusive breastfeeding for about the first six months, and continued breastfeeding as complementary foods are introduced. Practical elements encompass access to lactation consultation, mother-friendly hospital practices, and breastfeeding support in communities and workplaces, as well as adherence to international codes restricting the marketing of breast milk substitutes.

Impact and policy landscape: Stillförderung is linked to higher rates of breastfeeding initiation and duration and to reductions in certain infant illnesses, with indirect long-term health and economic benefits. National and regional policies—such as maternity protection, paid breaks for expressing milk, and public health campaigns—shape the effectiveness of these efforts. Monitoring indicators commonly include breastfeeding initiation and exclusive breastfeeding rates at several months.

Related topics include breastfeeding, the WHO/UNICEF BFHI, and maternal and child health.