World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated across the world every year from 1 August to 7 August. This year’s theme is Enabling breastfeeding – making a difference for working parents.
At Crown St Medical Centre, our doctors understand the challenges faced by mothers who juggle childrearing duties, whilst breastfeeding, and managing the mental stresses of nurturing a newborn with minimal sleep.
Many of our female GPs are also mums with young children who have experienced first-hand the challenges of breastfeeding, and returning to work in the post-pandemic work life.
Our local Surry Hills doctors encourage breastfeeding for the first 6 months where possible. The health impacts of stopping breastfeeding early include:
- an increased risk of gastrointestinal, respiratory and ear infections.
- Increased likelihood of hospitalisation for infections.
- Missing our on many antibodies that help protect against infections and build your baby’s immune system.
- This also means fewer visits to the doctor and less time off work for parents.
Our Surry Hills Medical Centre doctors and nurses hope to play a part in World Breastfeeding Week by educating mothers about the benefits of breastfeeding, correct latch techniques, and proper breastfeeding positions during pre and post-natal visits.
Our doctors will explore strategies to help enable breastfeeding for as long as possible, to continue for the first six months and thereafter alongside complementary foods for up to one year or longer if practicle.
Our local Surry Hills GPs can provide support for breastfeeding difficulties such as latching problems, nipple pain, or concerns about milk supply. Our doctors may refer mothers to lactation consultants or breastfeeding support groups if needed.
Our Surry Hills medical centre doctors and nurses can Monitor Baby’s Growth and Development to ensure they are thriving and gaining weight appropriately during breastfeeding. We can address maternal breastfeeding conditions such as mastitis or inadequate milk supply or offer guidance on how to continue breastfeeding, pumping and storing milk on returning to work.
Our doctors will regularly check on your mental health and well-being and refer to other services if required, such as Tresillian.
Crown St Medical Centre, Surry Hills is conveniently located on the fringe of Paddington, Darlinghurst, Woollahra, Centennial Park and Waterloo. For online bookings, click here or contact our friendly reception team on 9360 3338.
