BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT FOR ALL

Image by WHO

CLOSING THE GAP: EMBRACING THE GIFT OF EXCLUSIVE BREASTFEEDING


BY JIMOH ELIZABETH OLUWASEYI 


In the biblical narrative of Hannah, we see the profound bond between mother and child encapsulated in her determination to nurture Samuel before dedicating him to God. 


Hannah understood the importance of fulfilling her maternal role, ensuring her son was fortified with the spiritual and physical nourishment that would sustain him. 


Just as Hannah waited to nurture Samuel before his dedication, today's mothers are called to recognize the sanctity and significance of exclusive breastfeeding—a foundational act that honors the rights of every child to good nutrition.


With the theme- “Closing The Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All” for the 2024 year's International Breastfeeding Week, the dialogue around exclusive breastfeeding gains urgency. 



The WHO and UNICEF recommend that newborns should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life—an essential right for every infant as highlighted in the Convention on the Rights of the Child.


Understanding Exclusive Breastfeeding


In an insightful interview, Nurse Olaitan Oluwaseyi, Assistant Director of Nursing Services at Ifako Ijaiye General Hospital in Lagos, explained the essence of exclusive breastfeeding.


"Exclusive breastfeeding is the act of breastfeeding the newborn from birth till 6 months of life without introducing water, formula, pap, or milk," she stated. 


This approach not only meets the nutritional needs of infants but also establishes a unique bond between mother and child.


Nurse Olaitan advocates for this practice, highlighting its affordability and accessibility: "It is very cheap and affordable. You need no money to procure breast milk." This ease of access is particularly important for vulnerable groups, ensuring that all mothers have the opportunity to nourish their children effectively.


Strategies for Success:


To successfully navigate the breastfeeding journey, Nurse Olaitan suggests that mothers adopt certain strategies which includes-


 "Intake of copious fluid and nutritious meals is crucial.


“Ensuring adequate rest and breastfeeding on demand also helps mothers maintain their milk supply.


Mothers should not be tired of giving their baby suck, because the more they do,

Interestingly, the more the breast milk flows,” she emphasized.


Despite these strategies, many mothers still encounter challenges such as the fear that their milk may not satisfy their baby or the pressure of frequent feedings that disrupt their daily lives.


Nurse Olaitan further advised mothers to initiate breastfeeding immediately after birth, stressing that- "A delay in initiating breastfeeding—at least 30 minutes after delivery—is another challenge mothers face."


The Role of Healthcare Providers and Community


Healthcare providers have a vital role in supporting new mothers, and Nurse Olaitan believes that education is key.


"Healthcare providers can support and promote breastfeeding by teaching mothers during antenatal clinics. Also, the fathers can be taught some tips as well," she suggested. 


Family support is equally important in creating an environment that encourages exclusive breastfeeding. "The involvement of family members, partners, and the community is crucial," she said.


Policy Changes for Breastfeeding Support


Nurse Olaitan advocates for systematic change to bolster breastfeeding practices.


"A policy of six months exclusive leave should be embraced by the government," she asserted, stressing that organizations unable to provide this should offer good daycare facilities. Such changes would support mothers in their breastfeeding journeys and reinforce the importance of exclusive breastfeeding.


Collaboration for Global Impact


Moreover, collaboration within the medical community is fundamental to scaling up breastfeeding programs worldwide. 

  "Medical communities can collaborate with WHO to scale up breastfeeding programs by sensitizing the public on the importance of exclusive breastfeeding." Nurse Olaitan suggested.


 A Collective Mission 


Breastfeeding is a profound societal commitment. The World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action captures this sentiment: "Breastfeeding can help level the playing field in our society." Every member of the community—families, healthcare providers, and policymakers—must advocate for conditions that support mothers in this crucial role.


As we look forward to observing more International Breastfeeding Week, let us draw inspiration from the biblical story of Hannah and recommit ourselves to closing the gaps in breastfeeding support.


By working together, we can ensure that every mother is empowered to fulfill her sacred duty, nourishing her child with love, strength, and the best start possible in life.





 ©𝑰𝒏𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑱𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒕


~𝑬𝒍𝒆𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑵𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒔, 𝑬𝒎𝒑𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆


Health Care worker's Support Group 

Mothers are encouraged to initiate breastfeeding immediately after birth. stressing that- "A 

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