News / Breast is best
BREAST feeding is on the increase in Shetland and continues to be well above the national average, according to NHS Shetland.
Director of public health Sarah Taylor said the figures for women breastfeeding their babies immediately after birth and after two months were between seven and 10 per cent above the national average.
Dr Taylor said: “I am really impressed by Shetland’s high breastfeeding rates which are a tribute to the women of Shetland and the staff who support them. Breastfeeding gives babies such a good start in life and is such a rewarding experience for mums.
“It is really important that we encourage women who may not be initially enthusiastic, and support those who run into difficulty and need that extra help to get them to successfully breastfeed.”
In the past year NHS Shetland has trained 14 local women through the Breastfeeding Network to support others to breastfeed, with five undertaking advanced training.
More information is available from Nicola Blance on 01595 743389 and there are drop ins at the Gilbert Bain Hospital maternity unit on Monday (1110.30am) and Friday (1-2.30pm).
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