Several events planned for National Breastfeeding month
The importance of breastfeeding in infant and maternal health will be highlighted throughout National Breastfeeding Month in August.
The Government said this year’s observances would be held under the theme “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All”.
It said the month “celebrates the diverse experiences of breastfeeding journeys and emphasises the importance of providing comprehensive support to all breastfeeding families”.
During the celebrations, the Department of Health aims to “highlight the critical role of breastfeeding in infant and maternal health, while advocating for inclusive and equitable breastfeeding practices”.
Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, said: “Breastfeeding is crucial for a child’s survival and development, with many key benefits.”
She added: “Observing National Breastfeeding Month promotes the importance of breastfeeding for infant and maternal health, encourages support for breastfeeding mothers, and educates the public about best practices.”
Below are a series of initiatives and events which will mark National Breastfeeding Month in August
August 5 to 9: There will be a breastfeeding photograph display at the Washington Mall which will include photographs of mothers and babies of the island.
August 5 and 12: A podcast, Bermuda Health-Abets, which highlights all aspects of healthy living, will highlight the importance of breastfeeding.
Episodes will be aired on the department’s Facebook and YouTube pages.
August 21: Screening of a documentary, MiLK – Born Into This World, a film by Noemi Weis, at 6.30pm at the National Stadium.
The documentary brings a universal perspective on the politics, commercialisation and controversies surrounding birth and infant feeding.
Breastfeeding offers numerous health benefits for infants and mothers, making it the optimal choice for infant nutrition, the Government said.
It said the activity “supports the healthy development of infants, provides essential nutrients, boosts their immune systems, and reduces the risk of common diseases”.
From an economic standpoint, it said “breastfeeding can significantly reduce household expenses by eliminating the need for formula, bottles, and other feeding supplies”.
Kelly Crampton, a public health nurse at the Department of Health, said: “Support and education are crucial for enhancing breastfeeding rates and duration.”
She said breastfeeding success can be improved by “educating mothers about breastfeeding techniques, benefits, and problem-solving strategies”.
Ms Crampton added: “Access to breastfeeding-friendly spaces is crucial for supporting breastfeeding mothers, enabling them to nurse comfortably and confidently in public.
“These spaces promote a culture of acceptance and encouragement, helping to normalise breastfeeding and ensuring that mothers feel supported and empowered to meet their breastfeeding goals.”
The World Health Organisation and Unicef recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of an infant’s life, followed by continued breastfeeding with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond.
The Government said a registry of breastfeeding-friendly businesses would be released at the end of August.
• For more information about the health benefits of breastfeeding and resources available to support breastfeeding mothers, visitwww.gov.bm/breastfeeding
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