HFDI Supports Pregnant, Breastfeeding Mothers in Akwa Ibom on Infant Feeding and Nutrition
.. Gives Women IYCF Education, Micronutrient Supplements in Nsit-Ubium LGA…
The Hope for Family Development Initiative, HFDI, Akwa Ibom State, has conducted an Infant and Young Child Feeding, IYCF, session for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers in Ikot Inyang, Nsit-Ubium LGA.
The session focused on the importance of exclusive breastfeeding as a critical intervention for optimal infant growth, development, and disease prevention.
Delivered through interactive health education, group discussions, practical demonstrations and question-and-answer sessions, the training aimed to strengthen participants’ knowledge, confidence and capacity to adopt recommended maternal and child feeding practices.
Participants demonstrated improved understanding of key practices including early initiation of breastfeeding, importance of colostrum, proper positioning and attachment, breastfeeding on demand, and exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, without introduction of water or other foods.
Common misconceptions, particularly concerns about perceived insufficient breast milk, were addressed through targeted counselling and practical guidance.
As part of the intervention, pregnant women received micronutrient supplements to support maternal nutritional status and healthy pregnancy outcomes.
Beneficiaries were counselled on the appropriate and consistent use of the supplements in line with health-provider recommendations.
HFDI said the intervention complements IYCF education by addressing both maternal and infant nutritional needs and is expected to contribute to improved maternal nutrition, optimal infant feeding practices, and better health outcomes.
The participants appreciated the interactive session and reported improved understanding and confidence in applying recommended feeding practices. They also valued the micronutrient supplements and requested more regular sessions in the community.
HFDI noted that the activity strengthens its efforts to promote evidence-based IYCF practices and maternal nutrition at the community level and will contribute to sustained improvements in maternal and child nutrition outcomes in supported communities.