Pune, August 5, 2023: KEM Hospital Pune marked a significant milestone in maternal and child healthcare with the inauguration of a Lactation Clinic. Esteemed actress Vibhawari Deshpande graced the event as the chief guest, alongside dignitaries including Dr. Vishwanath Yemul, Medical Administrator KEM Hospital, Pune, Dr. Umesh Vaidya, renowned neonatologist and HOD of KEM NICU, Dr. Ashish Bavdekar, Acting Director of Pediatrics and Incharge of Child Development Center, Sanjay Saxena, President of Rotary Club of Poona Airport, and Dr. Anil Parmar, Past Governor of Rotary District 3131.
The newly inaugurated Lactation Clinic at KEM Hospital Pune is equipped with two dedicated lactation experts, Dr. Rani Balgude and Dr. Janvi Shah, who will be ably supported by the state-of-the-art human milk bank at the hospital. These specialized lactation consultants are focused on addressing the needs of newly delivered mothers, newborns, and their specific lactation requirements.
Dr. Umesh Vaidya, HOD of NICU and consultant neonatology at KEM Hospital Pune, emphasized that the outpatient department (OPD) services provided by the clinic would encompass a wide range of lactation-related consultations. These include guidance on preparing for breastfeeding, addressing common maternal issues such as engorgement and latch problems, as well as baby-related concerns like cleft palate, cleft lips, tongue tie, and even relactation or induced lactation. The dedicated consultants are equipped to offer comprehensive solutions and training for these challenges. Given the need for expertise and time in such consultations, the establishment of a dedicated lactation clinic was deemed essential.
Dr. Vaidya further highlighted the evolution of lactation science globally over the past decade. He emphasized that formally trained lactation consultants, aided by technology and lactation aids, can provide valuable assistance to new mothers throughout their breastfeeding journey. In addition to accurate guidance, mothers require encouragement, which lactation consultants are well-equipped to provide. These consultants now play a role right from the labor room to the operation theater, proving to be immensely beneficial for both mothers and newborns.
The esteemed Chief Guest, Dr. Vibhawari Deshpande, shared her personal experiences and expressed the challenges faced by young new mothers, often overwhelmed by a rollercoaster of emotions. She stressed the importance of prioritizing breastfeeding for the health of both the child and the mother. In today’s digital age, where information is abundant yet often overwhelming, the right guidance at the right time is crucial. Deshpande lauded the Lactation Clinic initiative, highlighting the significance of a caring and supportive environment for new mothers.
Dr. Ashish Bavdekar, in his welcome address, emphasized that the occasion of breastfeeding week not only raises awareness but also ignites action and fosters a robust support system to encourage breastfeeding among mothers.
The inauguration program also included a talk by Dr. Umesh Vaidya, shedding light on the paramount importance of breast milk in infant development. The establishment of the Lactation Clinic at KEM Hospital Pune marks a progressive stride in enhancing maternal and child healthcare by providing dedicated and expert lactation support for new mothers and their newborns.
