Training of Roma Health Mediators in Reproductive Health

• The baby suckles as often and for as long as he wants.
• The environment supports breastfeeding.
IV.
COMMON PROBLEMS DURING BREASTFEEDING (15 minutes)
Briefly present the most frequent problems (common breast conditions which sometimes
cause difficulties) in breastfeeding:
• Sore or cracked nipples
• Breast engorgement
• Blocked ducts (tubes)
• Painful breasts
• Breast infections (mastitis and abscess)
Emphasize that diagnosis and management of these breast conditions are important
both to relieve the mother, and to enable breastfeeding to continue.
Distribute the participant document Common Problems during Breastfeeding, and ask
volunteers to read it. Distribute participant document Care of the Breasts during
Breastfeeding and ask volunteers to read it.
Allow participants to ask questions and try to answer them, using the trainer document
Answers to Frequently Asked Breastfeeding Questions, as a basis.
V. MEDIATOR’S ROLE IN PROMOTING BREASTFEEDING (20
minutes)
Divide participants into small groups. Give them slips of paper with a myth written on
each slip (see trainer document Myths about Breastfeeding). Ask them to discuss each
myth and fact. One person from each group will present the group’s response to their
myth. Correct and/or complete their responses as necessary
Generate a discussion about the mediators’ roles in promoting exclusive breastfeeding
and supporting mothers with breastfeeding. Ensure that the mediator’s role includes the
following:
• Antenatal preparation for breastfeeding
With mothers in groups:
o Explain benefits of breastfeeding
o Give simple relevant information on how to breastfeed
o Explain what happens after delivery
o Discuss mothers' questions
With each mother individually
o Ask if she has any questions or worries
o Build her confidence, and explain that you will help her
• Education of young mothers
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RFHI/JSI Romania Training of RHMs in Reproductive Health Session 9: Breastfeeding