A Public Health Expert has urged men to refrain from competing with infants for breast milk and instead assist their wives in exclusively breastfeeding.
According to Lydia Owusu Ansah, the Head of Public Health at the Manhyia Government Hospital, men may engage with the breast but should allow its contents to be reserved for children.
In an interview monitored by The Ghana Report with OTEC News, she emphasized the importance of men recognizing their role in child nutrition.
“When your wives give birth, leave the breast to the child. Yes you can play with it if you so wish however, the milk is for the baby,” she stated.
Madam Owusu Ansah elaborated that breast milk contains all the essential nutrients a child requires during the first six months of life and also enhances the baby’s immune system against illnesses.
She consequently encouraged mothers to strictly follow the recommendation of six months of exclusive breastfeeding to ensure optimal growth and development of their children.
Finally, she urged families and husbands to foster a supportive environment for nursing mothers to achieve this goal.
