Ludhiana, August 07, 2025 (News Team): Fortis Hospital Ludhiana organized an awareness session to promote the significance of breastfeeding and its benefits for maternal and child health. The session featured expert insights from Dr. Gaurav Mittal (Sr. Consultant, Pediatrics), Dr. Gursimran Kaur (Principal Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology), Dr. Shivani Kaur (Associate Consultant, Pediatrics) and Dr. Amanat Sidhu Chhina (Associate Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology) all from Fortis Hospital Ludhiana. The discussion addressed a broad spectrum of concerns related to breastfeeding including the challenges around lactation, nutritional and immunological benefits, and postpartum care for mothers. The session also witnessed participation from 50 Mothers.
The event served as an important opportunity to generate awareness and empower new and expectant mothers on the importance of breastfeeding -for both a child’s overall development and the mother’s health. Active participation from attendees, with personalized consultations and interactive sessions offering everyone an all-rounded experience was witnessed during the session.
Highlighting the significance of breastfeeding, Dr. Gaurav Mittal (Senior Consultant Pediatrics) said, “Breastfeeding is crucial for infants due to its wide range of health, developmental and emotional benefits. Breastmilk is complete and balanced food, easily digestible with the presence of antibodies thus lowering the risk of infections.”
Dr. Gursimran Kaur (Principal Consultant - Obstetrics & Gynaecology), added Breastfeeding fosters an emotional bond between mother and baby. However, many new mothers feel unsure or get overwhelmed in the beginning. What they truly need is clear guidance and a space to ask questions without any hesitation. It is also important to remind mother’s that while breastfeeding has its nutritional benefits for the baby, it supports the mother’s health too by aiding postpartum recovery, as well as significantly reducing the risk of breast & ovarian cancers.”
Dr. Shivani Kaur (Associate Consultant, Pediatrics), pointed out, “Though it’s often considered instinctive, breastfeeding doesn’t always come naturally. Many mother’s struggle at the beginning, especially because of lack of information or right guidance. Myths like mothers shouldn’t breastfeed when they’re ill, or that they’ve to restrict their diet to ensure that the milk is nutritious, or even that they shouldn’t take any medications and more- all add to the confusion & anxiety faced by new mothers. This is why early counselling is important.”
Dr. Amanat Sidhu Chhina, (Associate Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology), said, “There’s still a lot of hesitation in discussing openly about breastfeeding struggles. As doctors, it’s important we encourage honest conversations and create an environment where mothers feel supported and understood. Through this session our goal is to ensure that every mother feels confident in nurturing her child. Breastfeeding isn’t only a traditionally supported culture but a vital requirement for the baby as it helps them with all the required nutrients. Hence, it is important for mothers to understand that formula milk cannot replicate immunity building & nutritional benefits of breastmilk. With the right guidance on properly expressing & storing breastmilk, even working mothers, can successfully breastfeed their baby.”
Speaking on Fortis Hospital’s commitment to maternal and child healthcare, Mr. Sunveer Singh Bhambra, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital Ludhiana, said, ". Through this Breastfeeding Week awareness initiative, we aim to not only normalize discussing the importance and challenges of the breastfeeding but also empower women with essential knowledge and medical support around it. Breastfeeding is the foundation of a child’s long-term health and simultaneously contributes to strengthening the bond between the mother and the child as well.” Through initiatives like these, Fortis Hospital Ludhiana continues to reinforce its mission of delivering compassionate, evidence-based care and fostering a healthier society, starting from the very first stage of life.”