Bhopal, Jan 21 (NationPress) A group of medical professionals from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Bhopal and Bhubaneswar has undertaken a groundbreaking study aimed at enhancing maternal and child health outcomes.

This investigation took place in Kodinhi village, Kerala, famously referred to as India’s 'Twin Town' and remains a puzzle for researchers globally, as stated by AIIMS Bhopal on Wednesday.

The research, led by Dr. Geeta Bhardwaj (Assistant Professor, AIIMS Bhopal) and Dr. M.V. Smitha (AIIMS Bhubaneswar), was centered on Kodinhi due to its remarkably high incidence of twin births.

This quaint village boasts approximately 400 pairs of twins, capturing the interest of scientists and health professionals for decades because of its unusually elevated twin birth rate.

Kodinhi holds the title for the highest twin birth rate in India and the second highest worldwide.

The researchers pointed out that twins are more susceptible to being born prematurely, experiencing low birth weight, and facing an increased risk of infections.

Given these circumstances, exclusive breastfeeding during the initial six months is vital for their survival and optimal growth.

However, managing two newborns at once places significant physical and emotional strain on mothers, often complicating the process of exclusive breastfeeding.

Insights from the study revealed that only 4% of mothers could exclusively breastfeed their twins for six months. Almost 70% reported experiencing considerable fatigue during breastfeeding.

Concerns about insufficient milk supply and the challenges of caring for two babies simultaneously surfaced as common issues.

Despite these obstacles, many mothers persisted in breastfeeding for up to two years, with some employing simultaneous or tandem feeding techniques.

The research also stressed that even when exclusive breastfeeding proves challenging, extended and simultaneous breastfeeding can provide significant advantages for twins.

“Insights from regions with high twin rates like Kodinhi can aid health workers, hospitals, and families in offering improved and more compassionate breastfeeding support to mothers of twins,” remarked Dr. Geeta Bhardwaj.

She emphasized that the study carries a crucial message for healthcare professionals, urging them to advocate for any form of breastfeeding, commend mothers' efforts, instruct on simple twin-feeding positions, and furnish emotional and practical support.

In commenting on the research, Dr. Madhabananda Kar, Executive Director of AIIMS Bhopal, noted that the study sheds light on the genuine challenges and remarkable commitment of mothers of twins.