The World Health Organization recommends early
initiation and exclusive breastfeeding until six months of age and continued
breastfeeding, with the introduction of solid food, for two years or beyond.
Yet even with all of the benefits to mothers and babies, in B.C. less than 50
per cent of moms are nursing at six months, despite a nursing rate that’s over
90 per cent when moms and babies leave the hospital after birth.
Lactation consultants and public health nurses are
available at public health units across Interior Health to assist mothers and infants
during the breastfeeding years to ensure families have all the help they need
to give babies the best start in life. Contact your local public health unit
for more information.
Successfully meeting the World Health Organization’s
guidelines requires much more than a mother’s knowledge and commitment.
Social acceptance and community support are also needed.
“One of the biggest hurdles for mothers is a lack of support for
breastfeeding in their community,” said Lea Geiger, Lactation Consultant with
Interior Health. “Support and acceptance of breastfeeding from family members,
health-care providers, employers and communities can make a big difference in
the health of moms and babies.”
A number of Interior Health sites are holding events
to mark World Breastfeeding Week. All breastfeeding mothers are
encouraged to come out and participate and to bring their supporters with them.
Community Breastfeeding Events:
Media, breastfeeding mothers and their supporters are
invited to attend events in their area.
- Date:
Saturday, September 29th
- Time:
Registration 10:30 a.m. (latch-on 11:00 a.m.)
- Location:
The Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market
- For more information: www.facebook.com/KelownaBreastfeedingCafe or e-mail breastfeedingiscool@gmail.com
Penticton:
Thanksgiving for Breastfeeding
- Date:
Saturday, October 6th
- Time:
10:00 a.m. –11:30 a.m.
- Location:
Penticton Farmers’ Market -100 block Main St. (look for the
breastfeeding tent)
- Contact:
Suzanne Lobb, 250 460-1172, scooziew@yahoo.com
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.