It's World Breastfeeding Week, and time is flying by!
We thought it useful to share a bit on our role in assisting moms and babies through this phase of their journey.
As stated by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA), breastfeeding plays a vital role in managing the double burden of malnutrition and reduces inequality within and between countries. The goal for this year's world breastfeeding week is to strengthen the capacity of governments, health systems, workplaces and communities to be educated and empowered to provide and sustain breastfeeding-friendly environments for families across all levels of society.
Occupational therapists are part of multidisciplinary teams supporting babies and mothers with feeding and eating difficulties. This may include difficulties related to being able to latch for breastfeeding or being unable to breastfeed. There is a need for OTs to advocate for our clients in various settings to have access to intervention and information related to breastfeeding early on but also to understand the health benefits (for both mom and baby) of this.
We are equipped to perform activity analysis, adapt and plan tasks, promote skills, establish support, restore and modify schedules, and educate on a variety of topics and aspects of daily function. Occupational therapy is focused on breastfeeding in a physical sense, addressing a baby’s ability to latch, suck, and swallow but is also present in addressing the maternal mental health aspect of breastfeeding. In addition, we are active in postnatal care with mothers addressing carpal tunnel and De Quervains syndrome as a result of breast- and bottle feeding.
This week is so valuable as it creates awareness about a sometimes "taboo" topic and facilitates conversations in social and professional circles about the importance of breastfeeding, how it impacts a mother's day to day life as well as its impact on your baby.
We should all remember that breastfeeding is a natural process and that it is extremely beneficial for mom and baby.
Is there anything you would like to know about breastfeeding that you were not sure about? Let us know!
With Love
Angelique
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