Breastfeeding Mums Invited to Big Latch On

2 August 2007

Canterbury Hospitals Invite Breastfeeding Mums to Big Latch On

The Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB) is supporting ‘World Breastfeeding Week’ (1 – 8 August) by inviting women and babies to the “Big Latch On”.

Christchurch Women’s Hospital, Burwood Birthing Unit, Lincoln Maternity Hospital, Rangiora Hospital and Ashburton Maternity Centre are all inviting women and babies to help set a worldwide record for the most women around the world breastfeeding simultaneously.

Jane Waite, the CDHB’s Maternity Services Manager says, “breast feeding is one of the most important things a mother can do for her baby. Our Women’s and Children’s Health division are very excited to be able to assist with this important event.”

The theme of the week is the importance of “skin to skin” contact between mother and baby directly after birth. Breastfeeding helps mother and baby bond and provides nutritional and health advantages that last far beyond infancy for the baby and offers health benefits for the mother as well.

CDHB Lactation Consultant Hazel McGregor says, “It Is wonderful that our maternity facilities can participate in this world event. As accredited ‘Baby Friendly Hospital’ facilities we provide a supportive environment for breastfeeding. We actively encourage skin to skin contact in the first hour, provide information before birth in our antenatal education programme and cover the topic extensively in our breastfeeding classes so that mothers, partners and families can be well informed on the importance of breastfeeding and the first hour after birth.”

Women are invited to join other like-minded mothers at the below birthing units on Wednesday 8 August 2007 from 9.30am with the ‘latch on’ scheduled for 10.00am. If you are unable to attend one of the birthing units or hospitals you can locate other venues or organise your own by registering at www.womens-health.org.nz .

Please call one of the below venues to register your interest.

Christchurch Women’s Hospital
Riccarton Avenue, Day Room, Level 5
Call 03 364 4521 and ask for Hazel McGregor

Burwood Birthing Unit
Mairehau Road, Burwood Hospital
Call 03 383 6844 and ask for Linda Jacobs

Lincoln Maternity Hospital
James Street, Lincoln
Call 03 325 2802 and ask for the Charge Midwife

Rangiora Hospital
Antenatal Education Room (upstairs), Ashley Street, Rangiora
Call 03 313 7299 and ask for Suzanne Salton

Ashburton Maternity Centre
Elizabeth Street, Oakgrove-Ashburton Hospital
Call 03 307 8487 and ask for Margaret Clifford

ENDS

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