Three Moorabool maternal and child health nurses have recently qualified as internationally recognised lactation consultants.
With funding from the Macedon Ranges and North Western Melbourne Medicare Local, nurses Ann, Pat and Clare completed a 12-month intensive studies course.
Early years manager Sharon McArthur said breastfeeding has many health benefits for babies and mums, and the nurses are now better equipped to work with them.
“Having more staff with specialised lactation knowledge and experience will provide greater opportunities for new mothers to access timely support,” Ms McArthur said.
“This is particularly critical within the first two-week period [when there’s] a significant decline in the number of mothers who continue to breastfeed.”
Ms McArthur said the nurses new qualifications would help the council to boost breastfeeding consultations.
For more information about breastfeeding services, call Nicole Carver, 5366 7100.
