Pune: Breastfeeding within the first hour of birth is key to infant health and will have a long-term effect on the health of the baby, said experts. Pune Obstetrics & Gynecological Society (POGS) in association with Indian Academy of Paediatrics recently organised Lactacon 2018, a one-day scientific conference to mark Breastfeeding Week, which is celebrated worldwide between August 1 and August 7. Chief guest and actor Girija Oak said that lack of assertion and confidence plays a part.
“Mothers require more support of the family. Confidence needs to be instilled in the mothers with the help of doctors. The facilities available to breastfeed also need to improve. We must come out for better support and solutions. All kind of outreach needs to be done to highlight the importance of breastfeeding,” said Oak.
Dedicating the conference to her mother, Dr Bharati Dhore Patil, President of POGS said that the scientific programme covered topics including risk for non-breast feeding mothers and infants, myths and misconceptions, lactation, human milk banking, panel discussions and case studies.
Dr Mangala Wani, Clinical Secretary of POGS said, “The skin to skin contact within first hour and thereafter is extremely important for infant health as otherwise the child may be vulnerable to many things in the future. Obstetrics has a crucial role in promoting and supporting breastfeeding.”
Dr Bharati Dhore Patil, Dr Mangala Wani, POGS Vice President Dr Ashish Kale, POGS Executive Vice President Dr Pankaj Sarode, General Secretary Dr Milind Dugad, Treasurer Dr Madhav Kankawale, POGS Past President Dr Sanjay Gupte were present along with Indian Academy of Paediatrics President Elect Dr Sanjay Mankar.