Free State health urges mothers of newborns to practice exclusive breastfeeding

The Free State Health department is urging mothers of newborns to practice exclusive breastfeeding.

For those unable to breastfeed, the department said support and alternatives are available at the nearest clinic.

The call comes as the province welcomed at least 35 babies born on Easter Friday.

Health MEC Monyatso Mahlatsi said that there has been a decline in teenage pregnancies, with one 18-year-old mother delivering at Nketoana Hospital, highlighting the impact of targeted public awareness campaigns.

Department spokesperson Mondli Mvambi is also encouraging mothers with surplus breast milk to donate at their nearest human milk bank.

“For healthy growth, mothers are encouraged to practice skin-to-skin kangaroo mother care. Parents should also register their newborns at the nearest Home Affairs office.”