The role of family doctor in the protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding

Sa？etak Family doctors have numerous opportunities to protect, support and promote breastfeeding thanks to the nature of their profession. Therefore they should provide the necessary evidence-based support to women accompanied by a positive attitude towards breastfeeding. Forms of breastfeeding support available to women in Croatia of which family doctors should be aware of include: antenatal courses, breastfeeding support groups, International Board Certified Lactation Consultants and paid breastfeeding breaks for employed women. Setting up of ‘Breastfeeding-friendly primary care practices’ is an additional way for family doctors to activly support breastfeeding. For professional advice, the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine ‘Protocols’ are now available in Croatian, as well as information on breastfeeding and medications via the website LactMed