Government at all levels have again been reminded on the need to extend the maternity leave of Nursing mothers to six months in order to achieve exclusive breastfeeding of the newborn.
Advocating this on ‘Engendered’ a feminine programme on Kaftan TV monitored by The Precision NG in Ondo, Mrs Oluranti Ajayi said the extension of the present four months leave for mothers to six months would ensured that they achieve exclusive breastfeeding of their babies.
The Nurse noted that breastfeeding is cost effective, hence Nursing mothers must take the advantage by breastfeeding their babies for two years in line with the World Health Organisation (WHO) standard.
“For mothers who can’t withstand the rigour of the two years feeding, we recommend exclusive breastfeeding from birth to six months after which the baby could be introduced to some foods taken by the family.
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“Breastfeeding brings about bond between the baby and mother.
“It prevents infection and diseases and it is readily available.
“It makes the baby healthy while the brain is also developed,”
she said.
Mrs Ajayi also advised Nursing mothers to always eat well and practice good hygiene.
Study @ Achievers University
