Whanau 'key to breastfeeding' | Rotorua News | Local News in Rotorua

Family support and the knowledge of elders are key to increasing breastfeeding rates among Maori women.

So says Torere midwife Amy Kelly who has developed Te Ha Ora, an Eastern Bay of Plenty antenatal and postnatal programme with a Maori focus which takes into account traditional concepts of breastfeeding and the important role of whakapapa.

"Traditionally there was no other alternative but to breastfeed and if the baby wasn't fed, it would die. The elders also ensured that their mokopuna (grandchild) was being well fed so it could one day lead the iwi (tribe).

"Breastfeeding rates today are quite low in Maori compared to other ethnicities for various reasons, such as not having support from whanau or receiving conflicting information.

"The best thing to do is try and keep the family together and use the knowledge of the elders and kuia (older women) to help with breastfeeding."

Mrs Kelly said there were many advantages of breastmilk.

"It provides immunity for the baby with nutrients and protective antibodies. It helps the baby grow and develop physically and emotionally and promotes bonding with the mother.

"No matter what adversaries to prevent breastfeeding, there is always a solution."

Mrs Kelly was a guest speaker at a breastfeeding conference with a Maori focus, held at Waiariki Institute of Technology.

She spoke about the traditional world view of breastfeeding and how that can encourage Maori today.

More than 100 people gathered at Tangatarua Marae for the meeting, organised by the Lakes Breastfeeding Wananga Steering Group, an inter-agency committee with representatives from Lakes District Health Board (DHB), Korowai Aroha Health Centre, REAP Taupo, Tipu Ora, Plunket and Lakes Midwives.

Guest speakers included Dannevirke cultural health programme co-ordinator Henare Kani, lactation consultant Amy Wray of Tairawhiti and midwifery Maori adviser for the Auckland DHB, Mahia Winder.

The breastfeeding wananga is expected to be an annual event with the Waikato DHB to be host next year.

Tips:

- Ensure you have a good diet and plenty of rest.
- Family support helps and allows you to focus on baby.
- Use professional help or a family member who has breastfeeding experience.
- Get help early on if needed.