Parents Centre supports action on breastfeeding

Parents Centre supports action on breastfeeding

“The launch of an action plan to encourage more women to breastfeed their babies for longer is a constructive response to raising healthy children,” said Parents Centre president, Sharron Cole.

“Commonsense tells us that mothers’ milk is best. This is supported by scientific research, which has resulted in numerous reports on the health benefits for mother and child. It is, after all, the only food source which is truly dynamic in meeting the changing needs of a developing baby,” Sharron Cole said.

“It is good to see the Ministry of Health is taking the initiative and has developed a strategy to encourage more mothers to breastfeed. The recognition that health professionals play a key role in helping women to establish a successful breastfeeding regime is only part of the equation.”

“The early days after the birth are a crucial time in establishing the breast-feeding relationship. It is, therefore, vital that mother and baby are accommodated in Baby Friendly Hospitals, and not sent home before breastfeeding is established. The long-term benefits will recover the initial cost of longer hospital stays if they prove necessary, said Mrs Cole.

As well as encouraging baby friendly hospitals, we need baby friendly communities, in which breastfeeding mothers are accommodated. For example, women returning to the workforce after taking paid parental leave must be given time and space in which they are able to continue breastfeeding. The health benefits will result in pay-offs for employers in terms of less absenteeism. Breastfeeding is a win/win for everyone,” said Mrs Cole.

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