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Breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival. WHO and UNICEF recommend that children initiate breastfeeding within the first hour of birth and be exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months of life – meaning no other foods or liquids are provided, including water.
Breastmilk is the ideal food for infants. It is safe, clean and contains antibodies which help protect against many common childhood illnesses. Breastmilk provides all the energy and nutrients that the infant needs for the first months of life, and it continues to provide up to half or more of a child’s nutritional needs during the second half of the first year, and up to one third during the second year of life.
Breastfed children perform better on intelligence tests, are less likely to be overweight or obese and less prone to diabetes later in life. Women who breastfeed also have a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
Different cultures and societies hold different beliefs about breastfeeding; in this blog, I will walk you through everything you need to know about breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding hygiene
There are hygienic practices to follow for the safety of mothers and babies. Here are some things to do during your breastfeeding period:
- Use only clear water on the nipples; avoid using scented soaps or alcohol.
- Take your bath daily.
- Make sure your nipples are clean and dry.
- Avoid wearing underwire bras.
- Replace nursing pads when they become damp, wet, or soiled.
- Wear loose and unrestrictive clothes
Benefits of breastfeeding
Breastfeeding has numerous benefits for both mothers and babies. Here are a few of the benefits.
TO BABIES
- Breast milk contains the appropriate amount of nutrients and antibodies for the child’s development.
- It is easily digestible.
- Allergies to breast milk are rare.
- It is important for brain development.
- Breastfed babies have less ear infections.
- Breastfed babies are less likely to experience stomach issues.
- Breastfeeding lowers the risk of obesity, asthma, certain cancers, respiratory illnesses, and diabetes in later life.
TO MOTHERS
- Breastfeeding reduces the amount of bleeding that mothers experience after giving birth.
- It enables mothers to return to their pre-pregnancy weight more quickly.
- It lowers the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer.
- Breastfeeding promotes strong bonds between mothers and their babies.
- It lowers the chances of postpartum depression.
- Breastfeeding is free and reduces costs.
Skin-skin contact
Skin-to-skin contact is an important topic to discuss when talking about breastfeeding. It is also known as Kangaroo Care, and it involves holding your baby close to your chest. Here are some of the advantages of skin-to-skin contact.
- It brings comfort to both mother and child.
- It regulates your baby’s temperature and breathing.
- It increases milk supply.
- It promotes quick digestion.
As a nursing or pregnant woman, the tips shared in this blog will help you in your journey of motherhood.
Breastfeeding also saves time and money
Breastfeeding is mostly free, barring expenses for any lactation consulting and breast pumps. By choosing to breastfeed, you won’t have to:
- spend money on formula
- calculate how much your baby needs to drink daily
- spend time cleaning and sterilizing bottles
- mix and warm up bottles in the middle of the night (or day)
- figure out ways to warm up bottles while on the go
Breast milk is always at the right temperature and ready to drink.
The benefits of breastfeeding are so numerous that most health agencies recommend it for everyone for as long as possible, barring medical problems that prevent it.
Breast milk contains antibodies and other elements that protect your baby from illness and chronic disease. It’s the best start you can give, if you’re able.