Presentation Information

What Is Breastfeeding? A Critical Look at Definitions & Informed Decision Making

• Speaker: Sonya Boersma , BN, MScN, RN, IBCLC
• Presentation Type:
• Duration: 60 Mins
• Credits:

Abstract:

Infant feeding is often referred to as either breast or bottle, with breastfeeding implying direct breastfeeding and bottle implying formula. Direct breastfeeding in this context is clear-cut, but in reality there is a spectrum of how babies are fed.

Breastfeeding definitions vary across research, policy, and clinical practice, leading to inconsistencies in how infant feeding is measured and understood. Describing infant feeding as either "breast" or "bottle," is an oversimplification that fails to capture the complexity of human milk feeding practices. It also ignores formula feeding at the breast.

Breastfeeding definitions range from feeding any breast milk in any way, which includes exclusive breastfeeding, breast milk feeding, or feeding donor milk feeding. The Baby-Friendly Initiative (BFI or BFHI) aligns with this broader description recognizing both direct breastfeeding and the provision of human milk by alternative means.

While breastfeeding definitions have been unclear for some time, what is known about the types of breastfeeding, from exclusive direct breastfeeding to exclusive breast milk feeding, it is critical parents receive accurate information. This presentation will examine various forms of breast/chest feeding, with a lens of informed decision making.