Breastfeeding week observed with awareness programmes
The theme of this year's WBW, an initiative of the World Health Organisation and UNICEF, is 'Prioritise breastfeeding: create sustainable support systems'.
'Mother's milk plays an important role in improving an infant's immunity and developmental milestones. Despite this, a large number of women are reluctant to breastfeed their children due to social pressure. We are counselling young lactating mothers to prefer breast milk over formula for their infants,' S. Padmapriya, paediatrician at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital (MGMGH) told The Hindu.
Rising awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding have also led to a rise in the number of donors of mother's milk at the MGMGH breast milk bank, she said.
'This year, we have recorded 192 litres of milk from 639 donors that has benefited 634 children up to July. In 2024, the bank received 288 litres of breast milk from 727 donors, that benefited 776 children. With the creation of segregated spaces for feeding mothers in public areas, and the government campaigns, breastfeeding must become a common choice,' said Dr. Padmapriya.
MGMGH observed the week with a rally, and special programmes for antenatal mothers. A workshop on breastfeeding and well-baby competition were also organised.
'According to data from the National Family Health Survey 5, only 41.8% of women initiate breastfeeding within the first hour of birth, and approximately 53% of mothers are giving exclusive breastfeeding for six months. We have held several events this week with the aim of improving these rates,' said K. Senthil Kumar, neonatologist, Maa Kauvery Hospital.
Besides counselling in-patient antenatal mothers, the hospital organised orientation sessions for anganwadi workers this week.
'Breastfeeding can be beneficial to mothers. It aids in postpartum weight loss, protects against certain cancers, and promotes a special bond with the baby,' said Dr. Senthil Kumar.
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