JOOTRH Celebrates World Breastfeeding Week by Educating New Mothers.

Story by Dennise Akinyi and Brand Omega Photos by Ondari Ogega JOOTRH Celebrates World Breastfeeding Week by Educating New Mothers. New mothers at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) received hands-on breastfeeding tips before being discharged. The hospital marked the second day of World Breastfeeding Week with a special session in the maternity ward, where new mothers learned essential techniques to ensure their babies are well-fed and healthy. Rosemary Shikari, a lactation specialist from , Mama Toto ChildBirth and Breastfeeding Educative Services, led the training. She provided in-depth knowledge on various breastfeeding aspects, focusing on proper milk expression, baby positioning, and a baby's cues. Key Tips for New Mothers Shikari addressed common mistakes, such as forcefully pressing the breast to express milk, which can cause pain. She advised mothers to instead use gentle pressure on the middle part of the breast, allowing it to relax without touching the nipple. She also explained that the first milk, known as colostrum, is crucial for a newborn's digestive system, helping to flush out the stomach and transition their stool from black to green. Other important tips shared during the session included: Proper Positioning: Mothers should hold their babies close and face them toward the breast to promote bonding and effective latching. Feed on Demand: Instead of setting a strict schedule, mothers should breastfeed their babies until they are satisfied. The baby's mouth communicates with the breast to regulate milk production. One Breast at a Time: To ensure the baby receives all the nutrients from the milk, mothers should empty one breast completely before offering the other. Limit Distractions: Shikari warned against using phones while breastfeeding, as it can cause the baby to favor one side, potentially leading to one breast becoming larger than the other. Stress Management: She emphasized that stress and overthinking can negatively affect milk production by interfering with signals to the brain. Twins: For mothers of twins, Shikari recommended breastfeeding both babies simultaneously to ensure they receive equal nutrients and promote uniform growth. Shikari concluded by stating that it is the hospital's culture to empower all new mothers with the knowledge needed to breastfeed effectively and take care of both themselves and their babies.

JOOTRH Celebrates World Breastfeeding Week by Educating New Mothers.

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