Danat Al Emarat Hospital for Women & Children in Abu Dhabi Marks World Breastfeeding Week

Danat Al Emarat Hospital for Women & Children in Abu Dhabi, part of United Eastern Medical Services group, organized a series of awareness activities on the occasion of World Breastfeeding Week that started on 1 August 2018. Educational activities included numerous seminars, educational talks and different activities aiming to educate mothers on the importance of breastfeeding and to shed a light on the health benefits of breastfeeding not only for newborns but also mothers. On Wednesday, 1 August, a full day of activities was organized including English and Arabic health talks, alongside numerous educational booths on breastfeeding, nutrition and baby massage. Another event was organized today, Saturday, attracting working mothers and fathers who were unable to participate during working days. In total, over 120 pregnant ladies and breastfeeding mothers attended the educational events.

Physicians at Danat Al Emarat praised UAE Labor Law which entails granting working mothers for a period of 18 months post- delivery, two additional breaks each day for the purpose of breastfeeding. These breaks are not to exceed 30 minutes each.

“With such rules, we have witnessed more new mothers breastfeeding for longer periods,” Dr. Sadoon Sadoon, Medical Director and Obstetrics & Gynecology Consultant said.

“Recent international scientific studies confirmed that mother’s milk is considered an ideal nutritional source that is easily digested, as it includes vitamins, proteins, and fats, which are the main elements that newborns need in their early life. It also contains antibodies that enhance child’s immunity against viral and bacterial infections,” Dr. Sadoon added. “In line with all these clinical indicators and the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi’s goal to create healthier communities, our team pays great attention to breastfeeding, and we have a dedicated clinic for breastfeeding managed by two International Board Certified Lactation Consultants. With an average of 350 monthly newborns, we believe our role in raising awareness on breastfeeding and healthy lifestyles is key.”

Neima Mokrane, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant at Danat Al Emarat Hospital said, “Our 2 seminars in Arabic and English were attended by over 70 women – some of which are currently pregnant and some who are breastfeeding. Today’s event attracted over 50 families. Our speakers focused on the benefits of breastfeeding such as strengthening child’s immunity against different diseases especially gastrointestinal infections and asthma, and improving the baby’s intestines function and digestive system. They explained how to ideally start with breastfeeding in order to prevent most complications. Our dietitians also spoke to attendees about healthy eating habits for breastfeeding mothers and newborns.”