Newborn twins in Vietnam. View Slideshow.

In Vietnam, most mothers breastfeed their infants, but the common practice of also feeding babies sugar water has contributed to high newborn mortality rates.

In rural areas, women often return to strenuous work in the rice fields within days after giving birth, so it is especially difficult for mothers to follow recommendations regarding breastfeeding.

Save the Children launched an effort in 2003 to persuade mothers to breastfeed their newborns exclusively for six months and to continue breastfeeding for two years.

Ho Thi Nger, a 35-year-old farm laborer, is one mother who took the advice. She breastfed her newborn from day one, including the colostrum (the first milk, rich in nutrients and the mother's antibodies). This is contrary to local custom, which disdains colostrum in favor of "nice milk," the later milk that is whiter in color.

After her previous child's birth, three years ago, she discarded her first milk, waited two days to breastfeed the baby, and gave him additional food after just two months, she recalls.

"Before, we didn't know how to care for our children," she said. "Now, with this information, they are very healthy."

The Importance of Breastfeeding

Immediate breastfeeding is one of the most effective interventions for newborn survival. It provides nutrients, warmth and stronger immunity for the baby. It also promotes bonding and helps a mother's uterus contract to reduce blood loss.

One of the most important services that can be provided to a mother is preparation for and support during breastfeeding. The World Health Organization recommends that newborn babies be put to the breast within one hour after birth, that they should not go without breastfeeding longer than three hours and that exclusive breastfeeding should continue for six months.

With the right intervention, breastfeeding behaviors can be changed quickly and dramatically.

Note: The above is an excerpt from State of the World’s Mothers 2006 report, pages 26 and 27.