Last Thursday, August 6 Estcourt Hospital staff kicked off National Breastfeeding Awareness Month with an educational walk through town.
Staff from both the provincial and regional Department of Health participated.

The walk began in Lorne Street and proceeded to Princess Park. The aim of the walk was to get out of the hospital, meet everyday mothers and equip them with vital tips on breastfeeding.

Matron Adam, encouraged mothers to feed their newborns breast milk as it provides the most nutrients, compared to baby formula.

“Mothers are advised to feed newborns breast milk for six months after birth. HIV positive mothers shouldn’t have the fear of breast feeding thinking the baby will contract the virus. Once your baby is on ARV’s, within two hours after birth, you both are safe and you are still giving your little one the best nutrients,” said Matron Adam.

“Formula is an excellent substitute when it’s needed but it doesn’t provide all the benefits that breast milk does,” Matron Adam added.

In a hyped atmosphere, staff sang songs of support and empowerment as they marched down Harding Street, while others handed brochures containing informative breastfeeding practices out to passers-by.