Fathers, grandmothers’ support Crucial to Exclusive Breastfeeding Success
By Auwal Umar, Gombe
In the journey of nurturing a newborn, six months of exclusive breastfeeding is widely recognised as the gold standard for ensuring optimal health and development. This vital practice not only provides essential nutrients but also strengthens the bond between mother and child. However, the success of exclusive breastfeeding isn’t solely in the mother’s hands; the support of fathers and grandmothers plays a crucial role in making this possible.
Exclusive breastfeeding means that a baby receives only breast milk and no other liquids or solids for the first six months of life. This approach is backed by global health organisations, including the World Health Organisation (WHO) and UNICEF, as it significantly reduces the risk of infections, enhances cognitive development, and fosters a stronger immune system in infants.
While mothers are at the forefront of this nurturing process, fathers and grandmothers are indispensable allies. Their involvement can greatly influence a mother’s ability to maintain exclusive breastfeeding. Fathers, in particular, provide emotional support and help reduce stress by sharing household responsibilities, which allows mothers to focus on breastfeeding. Their encouragement can also boost a mother’s confidence, ensuring she feels capable and supported in her role.
Grandmothers, often seen as the guardians of traditional knowledge, bring experience and wisdom to the breastfeeding journey. They can offer valuable advice and practical support, helping to create a breastfeeding-friendly environment. However, it is essential that their advice aligns with modern healthcare practices to avoid misconceptions that may arise from outdated beliefs.
The active participation of fathers and grandmothers not only contributes to the physical health of the baby but also helps to build a supportive family dynamic. By embracing their roles, they become key partners in safeguarding the well-being of the next generation.
Speaking during the media dialogue with journalists from Gombe, Adamawa, Bauchi, Taraba, and Plateau States in Yola to make 2024 breastfeeding week organised by UNICEF, Philomena Irene, a renowned nutrition specialist, emphasised the crucial importance of six months of exclusive breastfeeding.
Irene highlighted how this practice lays a strong foundation for a child’s health, providing essential nutrients that are vital for growth and immunity.
Irene further stressed the significant roles that fathers and grandmothers play in supporting this process.
“Breastfeeding is not just a mother’s responsibility. Fathers and grandmothers are pivotal in creating a supportive environment that allows mothers to fully commit to exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months,” Irene stated.
She explained that fathers can help by ensuring the mother has a stress-free environment, while grandmothers can provide emotional support and share their own experiences, which can be reassuring for new mothers. Their involvement, Irene noted, greatly increases the chances of successful exclusive breastfeeding, leading to healthier children and a brighter future for the next generation.
Irene’s insights serve as a powerful reminder of how a collaborative family effort can make a lasting impact on a child’s well-being.
**Mallam Usman Sani Advocates Six Months Exclusive Breastfeeding, Cites Health Benefits**
Speaking to Blueprint Newspaper in Gombe Mallam, Usman Sani, a 54-year-old community leader and father of five, said that six months of exclusive breastfeeding play a critical role in the health and development of children.
Sani highlighted the importance of exclusive breastfeeding, drawing from both personal experience and scientific evidence. “As a father, I’ve seen the difference that exclusive breastfeeding can make in a child’s life. My wife breastfed three of our children exclusively for six months, and they have grown up healthy and strong,” he said.
He also addressed some of the challenges that mothers face in maintaining exclusive breastfeeding, such as societal pressure, a lack of support, and the demands of work.
“It’s important for families and communities to support mothers on this journey. Fathers, in particular, should play an active role in encouraging and helping their partners exclusively breastfeed,” Mallam Sani stated.
His comments come at a time when Nigeria is making strides to improve breastfeeding rates across the country. Government policies and initiatives are increasingly focused on promoting breastfeeding as a cornerstone of child health and nutrition. However, cultural practices and misinformation continue to pose significant barriers.
Mallam Sani urged journalists, healthcare providers, and community leaders to intensify awareness campaigns, particularly in rural areas where breastfeeding rates are often lower. “Education is key. We need to ensure that every mother understands the immense benefits of exclusive breastfeeding and feels supported in her choice,” he said.
He also called on fathers and grandmothers to become advocates for breastfeeding, emphasising that their support can make a significant difference in a mother’s ability to exclusively breastfeed. “Breastfeeding is not just a mother’s responsibility; it’s a family affair. When fathers and grandmothers are involved, mothers are more likely to succeed,” Mallam Sani said.
Hajiya Hadiza Usman, a 62-year-old grandmother of seven, has become a passionate advocate for six months of exclusive breastfeeding after a transformative experience at Gidan Magani Gidan Magani Maternity in 2014. Despite her initial doubts, Hajiya Hadiza was convinced by a dedicated midwife to support this critical practice for her granddaughter’s health.
Recalling her encounter, Hajiya Hadiza shared that she was initially sceptical about exclusive breastfeeding when her daughter-in-law was about to give birth. Like many in her generation, she was not fully aware of the benefits of breastfeeding a child exclusively for the first six months. However, the midwife at Gidan Magani Maternity took the time to explain the numerous advantages, including improved immunity, better growth, and reduced risks of childhood diseases.
“I didn’t know it was so important until that day,” Hajiya Hadiza admitted. “The midwife was very patient and explained everything. She made me understand how exclusive breastfeeding helps the baby grow stronger and healthier.”
Despite her initial reservations, Hajiya Hadiza agreed to support her daughter-in-law in exclusively breastfeeding her grandchild. The positive results were clear, as her granddaughter thrived, growing up healthier and more robust than some of her older grandchildren who were not exclusively breastfed.
Hajiya Hadiza said she is a strong proponent of this practice within her community, encouraging younger mothers and grandmothers alike to embrace exclusive breastfeeding.
She often shares her story, emphasising the importance of listening to healthcare professionals and trusting the science behind their recommendations.
“Seeing the difference it made in my granddaughter’s Rahama life convinced me,” she said. “I tell other women that this simple practice can give our children a better start in life. We must do everything we can to support them.”
