Lactation Clinic inaugurated at KEM Hospital Pune

Pune 5 August 2023: KEM Hospital Pune today inaugurated Lactation Clinic at the hands of well-known actress Vibhawari Deshpande in presence of Dr.Vishwanath Yemul, Medical Administrator KEM Hospital, Pune, renowned neonatologist and HOD of KEM NICU, Dr.Umesh Vaidya, , Dr. Ashish Bavdekar, Acting Director, Pediatrics and Incharge, Child Development Center, Sanjay Saxena, President, Rotary Club of Poona Airport and Dr. Anil Parmar, Past Governor Rotary District 3131.

The lactation clinic will have two dedicated lactation experts Dr. Rani Balgude and Dr. Janvi Shah ably supported the state-of-the-art human milk bank at KEM Hospital Pune. The dedicated lactation consultants are specialized in caring for, newly delivered mothers, newborns and their lactation needs.

Dr Umesh Vaidya, HOD- NICU and consultant neonatology, KEM Hospital Pune said the OPD services will encompass consultation regarding preparing for Breastfeeding, common mother’s issues like engorgement, latch issues etc, baby’s issues like cleft palate, cleft lips, tongue tie etc and even Relactation or induced Lactation. The problems are addressed by these dedicated consultants with proper solutions and training. This kind of consultation and supervision requires expertise and time and therefore a dedicated lactation clinic was the need of the hour.

He added that with lactation science globally evolving in last decade, formally trained lactation consultants with the help of technology and lactation aids can help new mothers throughout their breastfeeding experience. What is required is not only right guidance but also encouragement and that is where lactation consultants are of great value. Today lactation consultants are present right from labour room and operation theatres. Lactation Science has brought a lot of benefits for mothers and new born babies.

Sharing some of her personal experiences Chief Guest and well-known actress Dr.Vibhawari Deshpande said that a young new mother has a rollercoaster of emotions. It is very important to know that breastfeeding is a priority for the child as well as mother. In today’s age there is so much overload of information. We need to get right guidance at the right time. Therefore this Lactation Clinic, where the entire staff is caring for the new mother is a very important and meaningful initiative in this direction.

In his welcome address Dr. Ashish Bavdekar said that the breastfeeding week is an occasion not only for creating awareness, but also galvanizing some action and creating a strong support system so that more mothers breast feed.

The inauguration program included a talk by Dr. Umesh Vaidya on importance of breastmilk in infants