District Hospital Phek organises a health awareness event to mark World Breastfeeding Week and educate mothers on infant nutrition.
DIMAPUR — Celebrating World Breastfeeding Week, which is observed annually from August 1 to the 7th, a health awareness programme was held at District Hospital (DH), Phek, with the ANC mothers and lactating mothers.
Addressing the participants, Dr. Keduoneilhou Mere, Paediatrician, DH Phek, spoke on the importance of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, and its benefits for both the baby and the mother, updated the district media coordinator, NHM Phek, in a press release.
The doctor informed the participants that breast milk provides complete nutrition for infants during the first six months of life and that it contains antibodies that help protect babies against infections, strengthens the bond between mother and child, and offers several other health benefits.
He added that breastfeeding helps the uterus return to its normal size after childbirth, burns calories that may aid postpartum weight loss, and promotes emotional bonding between the mother and baby.
A staff member from the District Hospital, Phek, demonstrated the correct breastfeeding technique to the participants.
It may be mentioned that Breastfeeding Week is observed every year with an aim to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding and to encourage mothers to breastfeed their babies.
As part of celebration, various activities are held at health facilities across the district. It was also informed that the community health officers, ANMS and ASHAs visit newborns and pregnant mothers to educate them about the benefits of breastfeeding and correct techniques of breastfeeding, and to discourage unnecessary use of infant formula, bottles, pacifiers, etc.