SSPCT launches ante-natal group in Uttoxeter

A new ante-natal group has been launched in Uttoxeter to provide breastfeeding support to local mums.

The Breast Feeding Support Group, launched by South Staffordshire Primary Care Trust (PCT), will meet every Wednesday between 11.00 a.m. and 12.30 p.m. at the Children’s Centre, St. Mary’s School.

Ann-Marie Jones, Health Visitor for the PCT said: “One of the key aims of the group is to provide support to mums wanting to breastfeed. The Department of Health recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life as it is the best form of nutrition for babies, as well as benefiting the mother.

“Sometimes though, mums can encounter problems when breastfeeding, so this group offers them the opportunity to have a chat, over a cup of coffee, with a health visitor and receive some very practical advice from a National Support Team Breastfeeding Counsellor.”

In addition to the weekly group, on the last Wednesday of every month between 10.00 a.m. and 11.00 a.m. mums-to-be have the opportunity of dropping in to the group to talk to the Breastfeeding Counsellor, Midwife and Health Visitor or to just have a chat with their peers.

Ann-Marie continued: “Often, it helps to be able to speak to women who are in the same situation as you or to mums already breastfeeding to understand what their concerns were prior to breasting and to find out what they’re experiencing now. It doesn’t might what stage of their pregnancy you are – you are most welcome.”

Breastmilk give babies all the nutrients they need for the first six months of life and helps protect them from infection and diseases. It also reduces a mother’s chances of getting certain diseases later in life.

Breastfeeding also allows mums and babies to get closer – physically and emotionally – so while your baby is feeding a bond is growing.

For further information on the Breastfeeding Support Group contact Anne-Marie Jones, Health Visitor at South Staffs PCT on 01889 562 555 or Carole Postlethwaite, National Child Trust, Breastfeeding Counsellor on 01889 563 982.