The Ministry of Health (MOH) has stressed the importance of breastfeeding and its benefits for both mother and baby. On the occasion of the World Breastfeeding Week from 1st to 7th of August 2017, MOH has, in an awareness inforgraphic on its twitter page, explored the best breastfeeding practices, which feature nursing the baby immediately after birth, exclusive breastfeeding for six months, not using baby suckers and baby bottles, and giving the baby solid foods along with mother's milk as from 6 months after birth.
MOH has also detailed the proper breastfeeding positions, including: cradle, arm supporting, cross-cradle and side-lying. "Breastfeeding provides the baby with natural nutrients, enhances its immunity and reduces colic, diarrhea, obesity, diabetes, milk allergy and eczema. In addition, mother's milk is digested easier than formula milk. Breastfeeding boosts mother-child relationship, helps prevent uterine bleeding after birth and helps uterus return to its normal size. It also lowers the risk of diabetes, breast and ovarian cancers. Exclusive breastfeeding is a natural contraceptive.”, added MOH.