ILOILO City – There has been a significant increase in the number of Western Visayas mothers practicing exclusive breastfeeding over the past three years, from 2021 to 2023, according to the Department of Health (DOH).
This trend persists despite widespread advertising of formula milk on television and social media, signaling a successful public health intervention, enhanced awareness, cultural shifts, and collaborative efforts to promote exclusive breastfeeding, said Yvonnie Rose Bu, Nutritionist – Dietitian IV and Regional Nutrition Program Manager at DOH Region 6.
DOH-6 urged mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding for babies from birth up to six months, coinciding with the celebration of Breastfeeding Awareness Month.
This year’s theme, “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All”, highlights the diverse journeys of breastfeeding mothers and the supportive roles of families, communities, and health workers.
“Nearly all mothers in Region 6 are now exclusively breastfeeding their infants from birth and initiating breastfeeding immediately after delivery. This trend is a testament to effective public health interventions, increased knowledge, and cultural changes supporting breastfeeding,” Bu told Panay News.
After reaching six months, mothers can introduce supplementary feeding while continuing breastfeeding, said Bu.
Bu explained the importance of exclusive breastfeeding, noting that colostrum, the thick, yellowish first milk produced after birth, is rich in nutrients and antioxidants that protect infants against diseases and strengthen their immune systems.
Moreover, exclusive breastfeeding offers economic benefits as families do not need to purchase expensive infant formula.
“Mothers can save significantly since breast milk is readily available. With a proper diet, mothers can produce sufficient milk for their baby without additional expenses,” Bu said.
For mothers, exclusive breastfeeding also aids in family planning through the lactation amenorrhea method (LAM) and can delay the return of menstruation.
Addressing potential embarrassment about breastfeeding in public, especially among teenage mothers, Bu emphasized the health benefits of breast milk over societal judgment.
In alignment with Breastfeeding Awareness Month, the DOH is conducting a massive information and education campaign through webinars, promotional materials in malls, and encouraging local government units and stakeholders to organize activities.
The Iloilo Provincial Government, through the Provincial Nutrition Committee, is actively supporting Breastfeeding Awareness Month. On August 10, 2024, they celebrated the 10-year anniversary of Hakab Na! Iloilo 2024 at the Iloilo provincial capitol, marking a decade since the inaugural event and reaffirming their commitment to creating a mother-baby friendly workplace.
Over 60 mothers from Iloilo city and province participated in the event, demonstrating the province’s continued support for breastfeeding initiatives./PN
