The BMA says beastfeeding should be encouraged

The British Medical Association (BMA) Cymru says more needs to be done to encourage breastfeeding in places like restaurants, cafes and shops.

It says breastfeeding is the best option for mothers and legislation would help change public attitudes.

The assembly government said it gave full support to breastfeeding mothers, and was reviewing the legislation.

BMA Cymru said that although there are many health advantages to breastfeeding, in England and Wales 29% of mothers do not breastfeed.

The fear of being offensive or embarrassed has caused mothers to either never begin breastfeeding or to prematurely wean their infants Tina Donnelly, Royal College of Nursing

It said breastfeeding protects against many childhood illnesses including gastro-intestinal and respiratory infections.

Women who have breastfed are also said to have lower risks of pre-menopausal breast cancer, ovarian cancer and hip fractures in later life.

In May, the assembly government launched the Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme, which asks businesses to make four promises aimed at making breastfeeding easier for mothers.

Those companies accepted on the scheme can display a window sticker showing they provide a welcoming environment for mothers to breastfeed.

But BMA Cymru said legislation is needed to make more acceptable for women to breastfeed in restaurants, cafes, shops and other public areas where children are allowed.

'Public attitudes'

A recent survey by the National Childbirth Trust found that 79% of mothers would like a law to protect their right to breastfeed.

The Welsh secretary of the BMA, Richard Lewis, said: "The assembly is looking for new legislation which it could support when it receives new powers in 2007.

"Legislation on breastfeeding would help to effect a change in public attitudes, as it would send out a strong message that it is acceptable for women to breastfeed and that it should be positively encouraged."

Dr Lewis added that mothers who choose not to breastfeed should also be "supported in their choice".

The BMA's initiative is being supported by the Royal College of Nursing in Wales.

Its director, Tina Donnelly, said: "The fear of being offensive or embarrassed has caused mothers to either never begin breastfeeding or to prematurely wean their infants."

The chairman of the BMA's Welsh Council, Dr Tony Calland added: "We are calling for the assembly to create an environment where women of all ethnic, social and cultural backgrounds are comfortable with discreetly feeding their babies anywhere and at any time."

An assembly government spokesperson said: "We give our full support to breastfeeding mothers as breast milk is best for babies.

"We welcome the BMA's comments and the legislation is under review."