On World Breastfeeding Week, AIMS Hospital Conducted Awareness Activities for Young Women

 On The Occasion of Breastfeeding Week, AIMS Hospital in Dombivli organized an engaging and informative event to raise awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding for both mothers and their babies. The event provided valuable insights on the importance of breastfeeding, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of this natural practice. Around 75 mothers participated in the awareness program, contributing to a supportive and educational environment aimed at promoting better health outcomes for the community.

Breastfeeding helps establish an emotional connection between mother and child. It is rich in antibodies and strengthens the baby’s immune system while reducing the likelihood of ailments like asthma and allergies later in life. For mothers, breastfeeding can aid in shedding pregnancy weight and contributes to long-term health benefits such as lower risks of cancer and improved cardiovascular health. However, unaware of the benefits of breastfeeding, many young mothers avoid nursing which can impact the child and their health. Hence, AIMS Hospital nurses and staff participated in the skit, emphasizing the significance of breastfeeding and the supportive care it entails. This meaningful session was a special celebration for all the moms and their babies.

Dr. Deepali Lodh, Gynecologist & Obstetrician, AIMS Hospital, Dombivli said, “The decision of breastfeeding, when it comes to younger women, is deeply personal yet heavily influenced by social pressures that overshadow the benefits of breastfeeding. For babies, breastfeeding helps in the growth and development of the brain, sleep, fight infections, allergies, and diseases.  In the case of mothers, it helps to reduce the chances of ovarian cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Young mothers frequently find themselves keeping up with the expectations of social media where unrealistic ideal image of motherhood are presented.  While many can effortlessly bond with the babies other mothers may be struggling for nursing. This can cause self-doubt and isolation in mothers who are finding it challenging to breastfeed the baby. Breastfeeding is also portrayed as messy and this will keep mothers away from breastfeeding the baby. Taboo and myths linked to breastfeeding persist in both online forums and casual conversations.”

Dr. Bobby Sadawarti Pediatrician at AIMS Hospital Dombivli Said, “Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for babies for at least the first 6 months and then needs to be continued until 2 years along with optimum complementary feeds. However, many women are concerned that breastfeeding may spoil their appearance, causing saggy breasts. Breastfeeding is often perceived as painful and time-consuming, with some young mothers believing it to be inconvenient. The majority of these mothers aren’t aware of the nutritive and nonnutritive advantages of breast milk. The lack of support from partners or family members can further discourage young mothers from breastfeeding, leading them to view replacement feeds as a more convenient and better option.”

“Young mothers often lack access to trusted resources or lactation consultants who can debunk myths and provide necessary encouragement. The promotion of formula milk as an alternative, believed to offer equal nutrition, adds to the confusion among mothers. However, this is a misconception, as breastfeeding has no substitute and offers unmatched benefits for both mothers and babies,” underscored Dr. Sadawarti.

AIMS Hospital, a leading healthcare provider in the Thane region, has initiated a community activity to create an awareness program aimed at encouraging new mothers to breastfeed. This initiative includes support groups and counseling sessions within the hospital. Women shouldn’t believe in any information about breastfeeding circulated on social media and must consult an expert to clear any doubts. Additionally, the doctors at AIMS hospital stressed the importance of informing partners and family members of young mothers about breastfeeding for a supportive environment. By assisting with household duties, partners and family members can ease the mother’s burden, allowing her to focus on nursing the baby effectively.