Exclusive breastfeeding is one of the strategies implemented in the Skin-to-Skin Care Unit of the Vladimir Ilich Lenin University Teaching Hospital. For the nutrition of preterm newborns admitted to this service after being discharge from intensive care.
Ana Nastia Tamayo, a second-degree specialist in Neonatology and head of the service, told the Cuban News Agency (CNA) that this food is vital for the survival of these infants. Which is why colostrum therapy, or the application of milk to the baby’s cheeks, is practiced right in the delivery room.
She explained that a premature birth with a weight of less than 2,500 grams (8,000 pounds) carries multiple complications. Also that hematocrit levels are tested to evaluate the quality of the breast milk in terms of calories.
Within the Neonatology department, mothers are given guidance on the appropriate diet to follow. In order to ensure proper nutrition for the newborn and avoid the use of milk substitutes. Which can cause complications, Tamayo noted.
Exclusive breastfeeding has been shown to result in faster recovery and better weight gain in infants. Unlike cases where associated complications necessitate the introduction of other foods, the specialist added.
Tamayo, who also holds a master’s degree in infectious diseases. She explained that educational activities on the benefits of breastfeeding are conducted not only in the hospital but also in health centers. Coinciding with World Breastfeeding Week, celebrated from August 1st to 7th.
As part of this international event, activities will carried out in maternity homes, community centers, and other institutions in Holguin. To highlight the advantages of this method among the population of childbearing age.
With information from CNA
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