Breastfeeding
When to start, how long to give only breastmilk, and the benefits for mother and baby.
✓ Clinically reviewed · Catherine, RN & Juah, RN
When should I get help?
- If breastfeeding is painful or your breasts are very swollen, ask a health worker for help.
- If your baby is not feeding well or seems unwell.
Key things to remember
- Start within the first hour after birth.
- Only breastmilk for the first 6 months — not even water.
- Keep breastfeeding with other foods up to 2 years or beyond.
📖 Read the full lesson
WHO and UNICEF recommend starting breastfeeding within the first hour after birth.
For the first 6 months, babies should have only breastmilk — no other food or drinks, not even water. Breastfeed whenever the baby wants, day and night.
From 6 months, start giving safe, nourishing foods while continuing to breastfeed up to two years of age or longer.
Breastmilk is safe and clean, and contains antibodies that help protect babies from many common childhood illnesses. Breastfed children are less likely to become overweight or develop diabetes later in life. Women who breastfeed have a lower risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
📚 Sources
- World Health Organization — Breastfeeding (health topic) Living page · accessed 31 Oct 2026
Written in plain language from these sources. It does not imply endorsement by these organizations.
HH-ART-013 · Version 1.0 · Last updated 4 Nov 2026
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HerHealth provides educational health information and does not provide medical diagnosis or replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.