Te Marae Ora Ministry of Health is highlighting the importance of breastfeeding for Cook Island babies as the country joins the rest of the world in marking the annual World Breastfeeding Week from August 1 to 7.

In 2023, 206 babies were delivered at Rarotonga Hospital. This year to date (July 31), the hospital has delivered more than 100 babies, including babies whose mothers were flown in from the Pa Enua.

And Lycee Teiotu, the midwife at Rarotonga Hospital, emphasised: “Breastmilk is the ideal food for babies and we encourage our mothers to breastfeed their babies.”

“Kia akamaroiroi ia to tatou mama,” Teiotu said, expressing that breastfeeding is important, adding “it costs nothing just your time, it’s safe, it’s clean, and contains nutrients that help protect against many common childhood illnesses”.

Te Marae Ora is highlighting the importance of breastfeeding as it marks the beginning of World Breastfeeding Week from August 1 to 7, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and many ministries of health and civil society partners.

According to Te Marae Ora, very breastfed baby, regardless of their parent’s income, can achieve the same health status.

“Breast milk is safe, natural, and nutritious, providing all a baby needs from birth to six months and beyond. It contains antibodies that protect babies from illnesses,” TMO said.

“Breastfed babies are less likely to become overweight or obese as children and tend to perform better in school.

“Additionally, mothers who breastfeed have a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes and certain cancers later in life.”

According to TMO, while some mothers may encounter challenges in breastfeeding, other mums find it easy.

The midwives and nurses at Te Marae Ora can assist mothers who are facing difficulties in breastfeeding, and in the next six months, the ministry will have a breastfeeding specialist from Aotearoa New Zealand available to help mothers and provide ongoing staff education.

In 2018, the World Health Assembly endorsed World Breastfeeding Week as a crucial health promotion strategy.

With a different theme each year, it aims to create supportive environments for breastfeeding women, including community and workplace support, and adequate protections in government policies and laws.

The week also highlights the benefits of breastfeeding and effective strategies to support it.