Jabavu mothers to get a helping hand

Flourish Organization is hosting an antenatal support group programme for expecting mothers and mothers who have given birth in Jabavu.

The programme will feature ten themed classes and the classes are an attempt to prevent stunting in children before they are even born.

Flourish programme highlights that from conception to the age of two babies are vulnerable to stunting and aims to support, celebrate and empower mothers in this critical stage of the baby’s life.

In addition to the ten themed classes, the classes will offer breathing, meditation, stretching exercises, baby growth monitoring and reflections on clinic visits.

Flourish Host Thandi Mzinyane said this is a good opportunity for women to ask more questions that they feel there is no time to ask in the clinic visits. She stated that women are encouraged to book on time and never miss their check-up appointments.

Mzinyane added that clinics don’t offer stretching exercises for pregnant women; tips are not given on what they shouldn’t eat and encouragement throughout the journey of pregnancy. “Women are encouraged to build a community of support in their locality which is proven to strengthen parenting and infant health outcomes.”

Member of Flourish Sibongile Kesa said attending antenatal classes will give you an opportunity to ask questions you don’t always remember at your regular check-up and you meet expecting mothers and make new friends.

Kesa stated that it’s a good platform to learn more about health messaging about nutrition, birth planning, and supplementation. “Flourish classes are the best medication to distress.”