Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding rates in Devon overall compare well to the national average. Figures 8.7 and 8.8 compare Devon to the local authority comparator group for breastfeeding status at initiation and at six to eight weeks respectively.  This reveals that breastfeeding rates are above the national and comparator group average, but also highlights that there is a significant decline in breastfeeding in the first two months in all areas. Breastfeeding rates tend to be higher in black and minority ethnic groups, in older mothers, and in less deprived areas.

Figure 8.7, Percentage of mothers who breastfed their babies in the first 48 hours after delivery, Devon Local Authority Comparator Group, 2014-15

Click to enlarge
Click to enlarge

Source: Public Health Outcomes Framework, 2016

Figure 8.8, Percentage of infants due a six to eight week check that are totally or partially breastfed, Devon Local Authority Comparator Group, 2014-15

Click to enlarge
Click to enlarge

Source: Public Health Outcomes Framework, 2016