​Rudzani Matshili 

As part of providing health education to patients waiting to be attended to at a public health facility, expectant mothers at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital in Garankuwa were recently educated on the detrimental effects of depression on breast milk supply.
Under the theme, breastfeeding towards a better and beautiful planet, antenatal Clinic health workers addressed expecting mothers during an annual event aimed at creating awareness about the benefits and importance of breastfeeding. 
During the event, Healthcare workers shared tips with mothers to ensure healthy pregnancy and delivery. Mothers were advised to try and avoid stress during pregnancy and after delivery as it is not healthy for the baby and also suppresses breast milk supply leading to the baby being reckless and not developing accordingly.
"Addressing the expecting mothers on the day Motshidisi Masisi, a Professional Nurse in the unit said: "When you are pregnant, avoid being stressed because you need to be breastfeeding your baby. Breastfeeding helps your baby to develop well, it saves you money and time, you have an infection free baby and your baby stays healthy at all times.  So make sure that if you have a problem that may lead to stress, you talk to us and we are here to help you. Breastfeeding is important but mental health is key to a healthy baby."
Mothers were also warned of effects of substance abuse such as drinking alcohol and smoking while pregnant. 
Some parents also gave testimonies of the benefits, saying their babies were disease free due to breastfeeding. In addition, they were saving money as they are not buying baby formula. 
Guest speaker, Chaplain Nolo Bashe cited the benefits of breastfeeding both for mothers and babies. For mothers, she said it helped with developing patience, affording them an opportunity to rest, gives them calmness and teaches them how to care, among others. 
"Benefits for the baby includes optimal growth, boosting immunity and breast milk also soothes the baby", concluded Bashe.