Changing Outcomes, One Baby and Mother at a Time
Our work is built on one belief. When babies and mothers receive consistent, compassionate care and support, outcomes improve.
In-Hospital Support
Inside the hospital, our team provides calm, kind and practical support when it matters most.
• Our doulas offer emotional and physical support during labour, helping mothers feel safe and centred so their babies can be welcomed into a peaceful environment.
• Breastfeeding counsellors guide mothers in the postnatal wards, helping them overcome early feeding challenges so their babies receive the nourishment and connection they need.
• Our lactation consultant supports mothers and babies who need extra care in the High Care Unit to go home with a healthy, thriving baby, and mentors hospital staff to adopt the same gentle and respectful approach.
Outpatient Breastfeeding Clinic
Opened in 2025, our outpatient clinic continues the care that begins in the hospital. Mothers return to a safe, caring space where they can ask questions, receive hands-on help, and feel heard.
From latching difficulties to milk supply concerns, every visit focuses on supporting breastfeeding so that babies continue to thrive at home. The clinic bridges the gap between the hospital and the community, ensuring that no mother stands alone on her breastfeeding journey.
Training and Protocols aligned with the Mother-Baby Friendly Initiative standards
We work with staff from the labour, postnatal, NICU, and paediatric wards to strengthen breastfeeding practices at every level of care, ensuring that breastfeeding support and protection at Paarl Hospital are of the highest quality.
Together, we review systems, offer regular training, and create environments where babies receive gentle support and mothers feel supported.
We have also established breastfeeding committees and support structures aligned with the WHO's Mother-Baby Friendly Initiative standards so that compassionate care becomes part of everyday practice.
Mother-Baby Friendly Initiative
MotherCare is developing a model of care that shows how hands-on, relationship-based support can transform breastfeeding outcomes. Through training, mentorship, and collaboration, we help build systems that place the well-being of babies and their mothers at the centre of care.
This model will be presented to the Department of Health with the hope of inspiring broader investment in breastfeeding support across South Africa.
Future Vision:
MotherCare Birthing Support
In the future, MotherCare hopes to create spaces where mothers with low-risk pregnancies can give birth in calm, supportive and nurturing environments. These spaces will be designed around the needs of babies and the mothers who care for them.
The first step will be an outpatient antenatal and baby clinic located near the hospital. Mothers will receive guidance, preparation, and emotional support throughout pregnancy and early infancy so that their babies can enter the world surrounded by gentle care.
Real Change, Real Outcomes
50% Reduction in Formula Usage
Formula purchases at the hospital reduced by more than 50% within three months of expanding the team.
Daily Presence in the Wards
A consistent, calming presence that eases the burden on staff and supports better care for babies.
Empowered Mothers
Mothers feel confident, equipped, and supported through every stage of early feeding.
Babies
Thriving
Newborns receive the nourishment, connection, and gentle support they need from the very beginning.