Breastfeeding Week 2024

Today, Aga Khan Hospital in Gilgit, part of Aga Khan Health Service Pakistan, hosted the World Breastfeeding Week launch. Ms. Khalida from Gojal, a new mother, was the chief guest. Ms. Nawroz Bibi, MAP Member for Gilgit-Baltistan, outlined the week’s plan, followed by encouraging remarks from Dr. Mahwish Ali and Dr. Sher Hafiz.

As part of Breastfeeding Week activities, the opening ceremony of the Lactation Room/Breastfeeding Corner was held today. Sajid Hussain, Head of Clinical Services at Aga Khan Health Service, Pakistan, was the chief guest and approved all necessary resources for the lactation room, as highlighted by Nawroz, Manager of Nursing and Midwifery. A lactation clinic, led by a Senior Midwife, will soon be established in this room. Pediatricians, obstetricians, and other key staff members participated in the ceremony.

Breastfeeding spaces and baby care rooms should be a priority for all organizations where women are part of the workforce. Aga Khan Hospital Gilgit sets a commendable example by providing furnished spaces for its female healthcare members, allowing nurses, doctors, and other hospital staff to care for their breastfeeding babies up to two years of age. This initiative is highly appreciated by the female staff, who can perform their duties day and night without worry. The Nurses, Midwives, and doctors, including members of the Midwifery Association of Pakistan, strongly recommend other public and private organizations adopt similar facilities. During Breastfeeding Week celebrations, the team visited this facility and expressed their gratitude for the support given to breastfeeding mothers and staff.

On Day 6 of Breastfeeding Week, Dr. Mahwish Ali, a pediatrician at Aga Khan Hospital Gilgit, led an insightful session on breastfeeding myths vs. facts. Nurses, doctors, midwives, and staff from all departments actively participated in the interactive and fruitful session. The discussion emphasized the importance of providing a supportive environment for breastfeeding staff and mothers visiting the hospital with babies. Information about the newly established lactation room was also shared. MAP Member Nawroz expressed gratitude to all participants and the facilitator for their involvement in the session.

The Children’s Hospital and University of Child Health Sciences conducted a lecture on “Breastfeeding,” along with various activities and counseling sessions for mothers. The event was organized by nursing officers.

On the 4th day of World Breastfeeding Week, a free camp was held at the College of Nursing Hub Chock in Balochistan. The main activity was a health awareness session designed to prepare mothers for exclusive breastfeeding immediately after birth, emphasizing its importance for both mother and baby’s health.

Participants received free health assessments to identify potential risks, along with anemia screenings and information on recognizing danger signs during pregnancy. This comprehensive approach aimed to support expectant mothers throughout their pregnancy journey and ensure a healthy breastfeeding experience.

Attendees also had the opportunity for free consultations with healthcare professionals, offering personalized support and guidance on breastfeeding practices and maternal health.

World Breastfeeding Week was celebrated today at Shed Hospital with the aim of supporting breastfeeding in a hospital environment. The event began with a recitation from the Holy Quran by one of the midwives, followed by an introduction and overview of World Breastfeeding Week presented by the Nursing Director, who highlighted its significance.

A post-natal midwife and a doctor from the labor room emphasized the importance of breastfeeding for the health and well-being of both mothers and infants. The event aimed to support and educate post-natal mothers, midwives, and pediatric technicians on the benefits of breastfeeding, promote best practices, and strengthen the support network within the healthcare community.

The celebration concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony by a mother and her baby. Additionally, midwives practiced breastfeeding positions with mothers in the wards.

As a board member, Gloria had the honor of serving as the chief guest at a breastfeeding awareness session organized by Hamdard University at one of their hospitals. The event brought together students, faculty, staff, doctors, and administrators.