The Sindh government had enacted Sindh Protection and Promotion of Breastfeeding and Young Child Nutrition Act, 2023, drawing inspiration from a commandment in the Holy Quran that mandates mothers to breastfeed their children.
However, there remains a misconception in our society that mother's milk is unhealthy. In reality, it provides essential nourishment to infants and shields them from a range of diseases, including heart diseases and strokes, throughout their lives.
These crucial facts were emphasised by experts during a training session on breastfeeding organised by the Dow University of Health Sciences. Present on the occasion where Dr Zeba Haq of Dow International Medical College was the chief guest included Dr Jahan Ara and Profs Khalid Shafique and Tazeen Abbas. The session garnered significant interest, with over 60 in-person participants and an additional 10 to 15 online registrations.
Dr Zeba Haq underscored that the Sindh breastfeeding act is firmly grounded in Islamic law, as revealed in the Glorious Quran. According to this divine law, breastfeeding is mandatory for two years for girls and boys, she said. "It is a natural law and thus adhered to by all, whether enforced by legislation or not," she added. "Delaying childbirth is also in line with the well-being of both mother and child, ensuring that the child receives the full benefits of mother's milk."
Dr Jahan Ara, MS at Dow University Hospital, emphasised the role of healthcare practitioners in advocating for breastfeeding, irrespective of their specialisation in general or pediatric practice. She highlighted the importance of nipple examination in gynecology wards, as issues may arise requiring attention. "Immediate post-delivery care followed by breastfeeding initiation is crucial. Moreover, practitioners should educate mothers about contraceptive practices in conjunction with breastfeeding, as spacing pregnancies is essential for maternal and child health."
Prof Khalid Shafique, Secretary-General of the Pakistan Pediatric Association, commended the Dow University for its relentless efforts in the face of opposition from vested interests. Stressing the significance of the child receiving the mother's milk immediately after birth, he noted that more than 3,000 individuals in Sindh have undergone training related to breastfeeding across various health sectors.
Prof Tazeen Fatima, Secretary-General of the Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Pakistan, elucidated the profound importance of breastfeeding for child's health and its broader societal and economic benefits. She emphasised the "Golden Hour" after childbirth, during which providing mother's milk significantly enhances a child's health. She debunked the misconception that animal milk, such as from camels, cows, or buffaloes, should be given to infants, as it can adversely affect their health.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 28th, 2023.
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