PESHAWAR: Experts at a two-day workshop called upon mothers to avoid formula milk and start breastfeeding to newborn babies within first hour of birth so that they could grow and stay safe from ailments.
The event entitled ‘breastfeeding and baby-friendly hospital initiative (BFHI)’ was organised by paediatric department at Naseerullah Khan Babar Memorial Hospital, Peshawar. The workshop concluded on Thursday.
Addressing the workshop, Dr Ziyadullah Shah, head of paediatric department, said that early initiation of breastfeeding was important for the health of mothers, infants, families and the nation as a whole.
Dr Hamid Bangash and Dr Khadeeja Aziz facilitated the sessions, focusing on 10 steps of baby-friendly hospital initiative.
Dr Hamid Bangash said that breastfeeding was first vaccine of baby that led to growth. He said that communicating a breastfeeding policy to all staffers was mandatory so that they could follow protocols for healthy futures of newborns.
He said that training of healthcare workers on breastfeeding support techniques was important for their knowledge to educate pregnant women on breastfeeding benefits and preparation.
“Ideally, breastfeeding should begin within the first hour of birth of babies. Mothers should be taught about the benefits attached to effective breastfeeding and lactation maintenance,” said Dr Hamid.
He said that formula milk could not be substitutes for breast milk unless advised by doctors. Healthcare workers should encourage on-demand breastfeeding and discourage use of pacifiers and artificial nipples, he said.
The event also highlighted the importance of avoiding infant formula promotion, strengthening staff capacity, antenatal motivation for mothers and role of colostrums as the newborn’s first natural vaccine.
The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr Rehman Gul. He said that breast milk contained all the nutrients a baby needed including fat, carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals and water. It is also easily digestible for babies’ developing digestive systems.
Published in Dawn, May 2nd, 2025
