The Big Latch On a Success

The Big Latch On a Success

Thank you to all Canterbury mothers and babies who turned out to the ‘Big Latch On’ events at Canterbury District Health Board hospitals and Knox Church today.

About 86 women attended, to try and set a new world record for the most women around the world breastfeeding simultaneously. The Big Latch On is held annually as part of World Breastfeeding Week.

Big Latch On events were held at Christchurch Women’s Hospital, Burwood Birthing Unit, Lincoln Maternity Hospital, Rangiora Hospital, Ashburton Maternity Centre and Knox Church.

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 this year’s week is the importance of skin to skin contact between mother and baby directly after birth. Breastfeeding helps mother and baby bond. It provides nutritional and health advantages for the baby that last far beyond infancy, and offers health benefits for the mother as well.

CDHB Lactation Consultant Hazel McGregor says, “It’s 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.”

ENDS

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