Support for new mothers critical

HIGHLIGHTING the significance of breastfeeding in a baby’s early development, South Rand Hospital commemorated World Breastfeeding Day on Thursday, August 18.

With men as the targeted audience this year, the breastfeeding awareness campaign aimed to raise awareness of the health benefits of breastfeeding, increase social acceptance of breastfeeding and promote support for breastfeeding.

Encouraging men to be supportive of their partners during the breastfeeding period, informative breastfeeding talks were conducted to educate mothers and fathers alike about the benefits of breastfeeding.

“More often than not, women are always expected to do all the household duties even when there is an infant. Husbands are encouraged to take their participatory role in raising a child and assisting with breastfeeding such as preparing the bottle for the baby,” said Matron Nomvula Mailula.

Group discussions were also part of the breastfeeding awareness campaign. The role of the partner, managing breast milk, prevention of HIV/Aids transmission through mother to child treatment and family planning were amongst the topics that were discussed.

“Fathers should take advantage of the time they have to bond with their child by assisting their partners,” Mailula mentioned.

Exclusive breastfeeding for six months and continued breastfeeding for two years and beyond is encouraged to help provide babies and children with quality nutrients and adequate energy without putting any financial strains on a household budget.

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