MGM Healthcare hosts breastfeeding awareness drive in Chennai

Chennai: MGM Healthcare, a city-based multi-speciality hospital, hosted a breastfeeding awareness programme on Friday, drawing new mothers, expectant parents, and families for a session focused on the benefits and techniques of nursing.

The event, held at the hospital premises, was part of an ongoing effort to promote maternal and child health. Medical professionals from the hospital's obstetrics and paediatrics departments led the discussions, offering practical guidance on positioning, latching, and maintaining milk supply.

Experts address common concerns

Doctors at the programme spoke about the nutritional advantages of breast milk for infants, including its role in building immunity and supporting early development. They also tackled misconceptions that often discourage mothers from breastfeeding, such as concerns about milk adequacy or pain during feeding.

Lactation consultants were on hand to demonstrate proper nursing postures and to answer individual queries from attendees. The interactive format allowed mothers to share their experiences and seek reassurance in a supportive setting.

Support for working mothers

A significant portion of the session focused on challenges faced by working mothers. Experts emphasised the importance of expressing and storing milk safely, and encouraged workplaces to create breastfeeding-friendly environments. Practical tips on maintaining lactation while returning to work were also shared.

Hospital staff highlighted that such awareness drives are essential in a country where breastfeeding rates, while improving, still lag behind global recommendations. According to recent national data, only about half of infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months, a key indicator of child health.

Community response and future plans

Participants appreciated the initiative, noting that many first-time mothers often lack access to reliable information. The hospital plans to organise similar sessions periodically, with a focus on reaching out to communities beyond its immediate patient base.

MGM Healthcare has a dedicated mother-and-child care unit, and officials said they intend to expand such outreach programmes in the coming months. The hospital also offers round-the-clock lactation support for new mothers within its facilities.

Healthcare experts at the event reiterated that breastfeeding is not just a personal choice but a public health priority. They urged families to support nursing mothers at home and in society, as this plays a critical role in ensuring optimal infant growth and development.

The programme concluded with a Q&A session, followed by a demonstration of breast-pump usage and storage guidelines. Participants received informational brochures and contact details for follow-up consultations.

As the hospital looks ahead, officials are considering partnering with local community groups to extend such awareness drives to neighbourhoods where access to professional lactation advice remains limited. The next session is expected to be announced on the hospital's official communication channels.