The FeedGood Factor comes to Stornoway

– November 30, 2009Posted in: Features

An exhibition to raise awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding for both babies and mums visited Tesco in Stornoway on Wednesday (November 25).

The ‘FeedGood Factor Roadshow‘ was organised by NHS Western Isles to provide useful advice and support for ‘significant others’ of new mums – the people who can provide support and encouragement to help women choose breast over bottle.

Local breastfeeding support staff were also on hand from to offer practical advice and guidance on breastfeeding and local services.

Local midwife Anne-Marie Maciver said: “It is excellent that we have been able to follow up events from National Breastfeeding Awareness week in May with this promotion. Breastfeeding is a serious public health issue which needs ongoing promotion for both mums and babies.

“There has been a fantastic turnout from dedicated breastfeeding mothers and supporters who are passionate about promoting all that is wonderful about breastfeeding on the island. We all wish to improve the health of women and give their children the very best quality start in life.”

The ‘FeedGood Factor Roadshow’ is part of the national campaign to improve breastfeeding rates in Scotland. Belinda Morgan, Health Improvement Programme Manager at Health Scotland said: “All the evidence shows that if women are supported by partners, parents and in-laws, they are more likely to choose to breastfeed.

“That’s why the campaign also appeals to partners and grandparents. If these supporters are on board, mums are more likely to feel encouraged to persist with breastfeeding.”

The campaign message – ‘the feedgood factor’ – highlights the health benefits of breastfeeding, as well as its role in strengthening bonds between mum and baby.

Breastfed babies are less likely to be ill with stomach infections, chest infections and ear infections, suffer from allergies, including asthma and eczema or develop diabetes in childhood. Mothers who breastfeed are less at risk of developing ovarian cancer and breast cancer. The NHS recommends that babies are exclusively breastfed for the first six months of their lives to give them the best possible start.

Anne-Marie added: “Since May we have produced a ‘Breastfeeding friendly places’ leaflet and this is available to mums – antenatal and postnatal. We have had such positive feedback from the campaign which tells us that mums feel empowered and have the support to continue exclusive breastfeeding for longer. We have also compiled a local support leaflet for mums and local banners and posters to circulate across the island.

“A Breastfeeding Support Group meets in the Maternity Unit of Western Isles Hospital the first Monday of each month from 2-4pm to support and encourage mothers to breastfeed. Another group meets at the Grianan Centre in Stornoway every Wednesday from 10am until 11.30am Terrace to support postnatal women who are breastfeeding. All are welcome to attend.”

For more information, please visit www.feedgoodfactor.org.uk or call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212, or contact Anne-Marie at the Maternity Unit in western Isles Hospital on 01851 704704.