World Breastfeeding week is a global healthcare awareness event observed annually from the 1st to 7th of August, to create awareness on the benefits of breastfeeding for both the mother and her child. This year, the World Breastfeeding week’s theme was “Let’s make breastfeeding and work, work”. This year’s campaign highlights the impact of workplace support, paid leaves and emerging parenting norms on breastfeeding. This event was observed at Rural Health Training Center (RHTC), Devarayasamudra, where 60 mothers from various villages participated in the awareness session.
Dr. Kavita, Medical Officer, Govt PHC, Devarayasamudra emphasized on the early initiation of breastfeeding as it provides the nutrients and antibodies that help to protect infants against various illnesses and diseases.
Nursing staff SriLakshmi and Prof. Gayathri from RL Jalappa Hospital briefed te gathering regarding the correct techniques of breastfeeding as it ensures both the mother’s comfort and baby’s effective feeding.
Medical Officer informed ASHAs regarding common breastfeeding challenges such as engorgement, sore nipple and low milk supply and how to address these issues. ASHAs agreed to work to dispel the various myths and misconceptions regarding breastfeeding.
Dr. Mohan Babu, Post Graduate student from the Dept of Community Medicine, SDUMC, addressed the house surgeons regarding the ten steps in Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative. The interns presented posters on benefits of breastfeeding.