DOHA: Multiple research studies now confirm that women who breastfeed their babies for six months or longer can reduce their risk of developing pre- and post-menopausal breast cancer, ovarian cancer, hypertension, and Type 2 diabetes.
Haila Johar, Executive Director of Nursing at the Women’s Wellness and Research Center (WWRC), says nurses play an important role in encouraging women to choose, and continue, breast-feeding.
“Evidence shows that exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life offers many health benefits for both mother and child. However, it is not always easy for women to follow through on this recommendation. The key to successful breastfeeding is to understand each woman’s challenges and provide easy access to information and support,” said Johar in a statement.
Breast-feeding provides all the energy and nutrients that an infant needs. It promotes sensory and cognitive development and protects the infant against a number of infectious and chronic diseases. Exclusive breast-feeding also reduces infant mortality from common childhood illnesses such as diarrhea and pneumonia and helps ensure a quicker recovery from illness.
It also strengthens the bond between mother and child, aids in postpartum recovery, reduces the risk of postpartum bleeding, anemia, breast and ovarian cancer, hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis during menopause.
According to Johar, mothers need to be informed about infant feeding options so they can make a knowledgeable choice.
To encourage more women to consider breast-feeding, expectant mothers scheduled for an antenatal assessment at the Women’s Wellness and Research Center receive information from the hospital’s nurses, patient family educators, and clinical midwife specialists about the benefits of breastfeeding and instruction on the various techniques.
If extra guidance is required or requested, additional coaching and one-on-one support are offered at the Outpatient Department.
