In praise of breast milk
More than simply baby food, breast milk represents all that a loving mother can do for her child.
It’s the most incomparable food of all, not just providing immunity but also creating a bond between parent and child.
During the first week of August, Simitivej Sukhumvit Hospital celebrated World Breastfeeding Week with 170 other hospitals around the world. Its theme was “Smitivej Breastfeeding Support: Close to Mothers”, and nine women deemed “the most dedicated mothers” were honoured for breastfeeding their children for six months with no additional nutrition. Sutita Panyayong is this year’s Breastfeeding Ambassador.
Dr Chitchamlong Harinsut, vice president of the hospital, explained how much it values the practice and provides various kinds of support for new mothers. “About 80 mothers give birth at the hospital each month, and half of them take up breastfeeding successfully. We also emphasise our Baby Homecare Service to help mothers in that difficult time after they leave the hospital.”
Nurse Meena Sopsamai, an expert on breastfeeding, said the “miraculous” milk is not only good for the baby but also for mother’s health because it reduces the risk of breast and ovary cancer.
