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Breastfeed exclusively during the first 6 months

Updated Generic C-IYCF Counselling Package, 2024 (UNICEF | 2024)
Breastfeed exclusively during the first 6 months

Key Messages

  • Exclusive breastfeeding means feeding your baby ONLY breastmilk for the first 6 months of life.
  • Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months because it provides all the nutrients your baby needs to grow well and protects your baby from many illnesses, such as diarrhoea and respiratory infections.
  • Mixed feeding means feeding your baby both breastmilk and any other foods or liquids, including infant formula, animal milks or water.
  • Mixed feeding before 6 months of age is not recommended. Liquids other than breastmilk can harm your baby’s stomach and increase the chances that your baby will suffer from illnesses such as diarrhoea and pneumonia.
  • Mixed feeding can also increase the risk of malnutrition. Some babies develop undernutrition and can become very thin or stunted. Other babies suffer from deficiencies in vitamins and nutrients, exposing them to illness more easily. Other babies become overweight and even obese.
  • When you exclusively breastfeed your baby, on demand, both day and night during the first 6 months, and your menses has not returned, you are protected from becoming pregnant.
  • After 6 months, or if your breastfeeding changes or your menses begin, you are no longer protected from pregnancy. Talk to your health care provider about ways to avoid another pregnancy until your baby is older and your body is ready.
  • Mothers who cannot exclusively breastfeed can be supported to feed their babies safely with infant formula during the first 6 months. See Counselling Card 38 for further guidance. 

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