The District Hospital, Kiphire observed World Breastfeeding Week under the theme “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All” on 2 August, focusing on the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for both infants and mothers.
Dr Thritingla Sangtam, Senior Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology, highlighted the importance of EBF, which entails feeding a baby solely breast milk for the first six months of life. Recognized by healthcare professionals and organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), EBF is considered the gold standard for infant nutrition. Breast milk provides essential nutrients for growth and development and contains antibodies that protect against infections and diseases.
Dr Sangtam reiterated that breastfeeding offers the right mix of nutrients, protects against various diseases, and supports overall health. She also noted that breastfeeding within the first hour of birth helps protect newborns from infections and reduces mortality. She urged all mothers to follow expert recommendations on breastfeeding, affirming that no alternative can match the benefits of breast milk.
EBF also strengthens the bond between mother and child, supporting emotional and psychological development. For mothers, it promotes uterine contraction, lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, and aids in post-childbirth weight loss, she said.
Despite these advantages, many mothers encounter difficulties with EBF, such as latching issues, low milk supply, engorgement, and returning to work. With proper support and guidance, these challenges can be managed, she also said.
The event included speeches by EAC Kiphire Kudazo Swuro, and CDPO Kiphire, S Yesumong Sangtam, and featured the distribution of hampers to participating mothers.
Swuro underscored the significance of breastfeeding, referencing surveys that reveal 3.2 billion out of 7.2 billion people are not breastfed. He urged mothers to prioritize breastfeeding, emphasizing its crucial role in providing life and nourishment.
The program was chaired by Dr Dheni Sangtam, Epidemiologist at the CMO office in Kiphire. Holika K Swu, Assistant Women Pastor at SBAK, NITO MOUNT, gave the invocation, while Dr Yelo T Mero, DPO (UIP/RCH), delivered the welcome address, and Jully Sumi, BPM, proposed the vote of thanks.
This is such a detailed and insightful post. I really appreciate the effort you put into explaining everything so clearly.
I appreciate the thorough analysis you’ve provided in this post. It’s made a big difference in my understanding of the topic.