Nurturing Health from the Start: The Importance of Breastfeeding for Children
Jaipur, August 7, 2025: As part of World Breastfeeding Week, Fortis Hospital Jaipur, in collaboration with the Perfection with Passion Group, organised an awareness session on breastfeeding to educate and empower new and expectant mothers. The session was led by Dr Smita Vaid (Additional Director, Obstetrics and Gynaecology) Fortis Escorts Jaipur, Dr Shallu Kakkar (Additional Director, Obstetrics and Gynaecology) Fortis Escorts Jaipur and Dr Shyam Sundar Sharma (Consultant, Neonatology) Fortis Escorts Jaipur along with Dr Sanjay Choudhary (Senior Consultant, Pediatrics) Fortis Escorts Jaipur. The session witnessed participation from over 60 mothers, who received expert guidance from the doctors on breastfeeding related concerns, including lactation challenges, the benefits of breastfeeding as well as post-partum care.
Speaking at the session, Dr Shyam Sundar Sharma (Consultant, Neonatology) said: “Breastfeeding is not just a mother’s responsibility. It requires awareness, support and encouragement from both family and society. Unfortunately, new mothers often face immense stress and anxiety, not just due to physical challenges but also because of societal pressure and widespread myths around breastfeeding, like how the mother’s diet impact the milk quality, how mothers should not be breastfeeding immediately after taking a bath or when sick. It is important to raise awareness around breastfeed to ensure that new mothers are empowered with the right knowledge to care for their newborns in the most nurturing way possible.”
Dr Shallu Kakkar (Additional Director, Obstetrics and Gynaecology) added: “ Promoting breastfeeding right from birth is not just beneficial for the baby’s immediate immunity building, it is an investment in a healthier future for the child. In today’s urban lifestyle, many new mothers return to demanding routines of work soon after childbirth, which often makes breastfeeding difficult. With the right guidance & support even working mothers can continue their breastfeeding journey after resuming work.”
Speaking on Fortis Hospital’s commitment to maternal and child healthcare, Dr Smita Vaid (Additional Director, Obstetrics and Gynaecology)added: “Awareness around lactation, postpartum care and nutrition is still lacking in many parts of India. It is important that mothers understand the benefits of breastfeeding, not just for the baby’s immunity & development but also for the mother’s physical & emotional recovery. Addressing this knowledge gap is essential to ensure that mothers feel seen, supported and well-informed during this important stage in life. At Fortis, we are committed to creating safe spaces where women can access accurate information, expert medical support, and the encouragement they need.”