Breastfeeding takes centre stage this week
Breast milk has the ideal nutrition for babies.
World Breastfeeding Week, an annual campaign run by the World Health Organisation (WHO), takes place from August 1 to 7.
According to numerous studies, breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways of reducing child deaths and promoting healthy development.
Beyond that, it has been found to reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, type two diabetes and depression in mothers.
“Breast milk has the ideal nutrition for babies and it helps to prevent illness and infant death, as it contains key antibodies.
“For moms, it aids with recovery after birth and strengthens the bond with their child,” said Dr Howard Manyonga, an obstetrician and head of The Birthing Team, a programme in which maternity care and antenatal education is delivered by teams of healthcare professionals.
“Having teams that can provide quality medical services, as well as patient education and follow-ups after birth, is central to how we work – holistic care plans and ensuring moms have the right information is best practice medicine.”
In line with WHO guidelines, Manyonga recommended that breastfeeding starts within an hour after birth and that babies are given breast milk exclusively at first.
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“Babies need nothing else except breast milk for the first six months of life, not even water or juice.
“After that, solid foods can be introduced – but breast milk should continue to be a part of a babies’ diet for two years or longer,” he said.
In addition, skin-to-skin contact is recommended as it supports babies’ latching correctly and bonding between mother and child.
“Almost all women are able to breastfeed, provided they are given the right information and support.
“The over-use of bottles and dummies is discouraged,” said Manyonga.
“Antenatal classes are important for ensuring that women have a healthy pregnancy and delivery, and that they are equipped to give their baby the best chance at development.”
At the classes included in The Birthing Team’s programme, women are taught about the benefits of breastfeeding, different methods and positions to try, and how to identify a problem with the babies’ latching.
Facts about breastfeeding:
- Babies that are exclusively breastfed for the first six months have fewer ear infections, respiratory illnesses and bouts of diarrhoea.
- Breast milk contains antibodies that help prevent common childhood illnesses like diarrhoea and pneumonia.
- Women who are HIV positive and on anti-retrovirals can safely breastfeed their babies without transmitting the virus.
- The health benefits of breastfeeding lasts well into adulthood – effecting both physical growth and brain development.
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