DOH cites successful breastfeeding activity in Iloilo City
The Department of Health -- Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) stressed that the introduction of breastmilk within the first hour and exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months would ensure the survival of the child.
"Breastmilk alone can fully satisfy the nutritional needs of a baby for the first six months and they do not need any other food or liquid aside from breastmilk," DOH Regional Director Lydia Depra-Ramos said.
To further stress the point, the DOH-CHD in coordination with the Iloilo City government and the Department of Social Welfare and Development last week gathered some 964 nursing mothers from the six districts of the city for a synchronized breastfeeding activity.
The ages of babies that participated in the activity ranged from five days old to nine months.
The event was held simultaneous with the celebration of the World Breastfeeding Week.
The gathering was also an avenue of fellowship among breastfeeding mothers leading to their forming of a mother support group.
"Mothers should not be ashamed to breastfeed in public, instead be proud of being a breastfeeding mother," Ramos underscored.
(PNA)