Overview
- Germany’s S3 guideline advises exclusive or predominant breastfeeding through the completed sixth month, introducing complementary foods from the start of month seven, with a minimum total breastfeeding duration of twelve months.
- The evidence-based guidance was developed under the AWMF by experts from DGKJ, DGGG and DGHWI after a systematic review and interdisciplinary consensus.
- The update reverses roughly 15 years of national advice that had recommended starting solids after the completed fourth to sixth month.
- The German Midwives Association (DHV) welcomes the shift, pointing to documented benefits for infants and mothers reported by professional groups.
- Guideline authors stress individualized counseling and emphasize the recommendations are nonmandatory guardrails intended to support families rather than apply pressure.