Facts of Breastfeeding

According to a Unicef report, if all babies were fed only breast milk for the first six months of life, approximately 1.5 million babies would be saved yearly and the health of millions of others would see significant improvements. That’s how good breast milk is for infants. Yet, doubts and scepticisms about breastfeeding linger.

So is breastfeeding for you? Wrong notions about breastfeeding may lead to unwise decisions. Here are some facts on breastfeeding to help clear the air.

The Complete Food

Breast milk has the right amounts of nutrients for baby until she is four to six-months old. Additionally, the composition of breast milk changes during a feed. It actually becomes higher in fat towards the end, making baby feel full and stop sucking.

Disease Prevention

Breast milk contains antibodies that protect baby from illnesses. It is easily absorbed and digested as well. It also reduces the likelihood of allergies such as eczema, allergic rhinitis and asthma. Some studies even show breastfed babies are less likely to develop diabetes and becoming obese later in life.

Breast Size Irrelevant In Milk Production

Milk production actually depends on the size of the mammary glands inside the breast, which are the same regardless of breast size. Therefore, breast size has no effect on milk production. That means all mothers should be able to produce milk for their babies.

The Saggy Breast Worry

This concern is uncalled for since saggy breasts are caused by the natural process of aging and gravity. In fact, women who breastfeed will be able to get back in shape faster as breastfeeding helps burn up the fat stored during pregnancy. It also releases hormones which help the uterus to shrink back to its normal size faster.

Practice Makes Perfect

Breastfeeding isn't necessarily an easy thing to do. While it comes naturally for some women, many others will need some time to learn and master the skill. New mothers who understand that won’t be so easily disheartened and frustrated when problems arise. Be patient and practice diligently. Get help from lactation consultants at the maternity clinic if need be.

Pain and Discomfort

Some new nursing mothers may feel some tenderness at first. However, this is often a temporary problem. If you still feel pain after a few days, it’s probably because your baby has not latched on to your nipple and areola properly. Be patient and learn how to get him to latch on the right way.

The Issue of Convenience

While it’s true that some mothers may not be able to find the right spot to nurse their baby when they're away from home, they also don't have to lug around formula milk supply and storage wherever they go! Still concerned? Go only to places that have facilities for breastfeeding. These days, most big public buildings and shopping malls have parents’ rooms to allow nursing mothers privacy.

Breastfeeding when Sick

Some women stop breastfeeding when they fall sick but they don't necessarily have to. Unless a nursing mother suffers a serious illness or infection, it’s alright to keep on breastfeeding. During a bout of cold, flu or bacterial infection, the body actually produces antibodies which are passed on to the baby through breastfeeding. If you’re taking medications and are not sure about it, check with your doctor first.

Breastfeeding has many benefits, for both the baby and mother. The advantages far outweigh the few inconveniences that come with it. So make breastfeeding your choice.

References:

Dr. Miriam Stoppard. Complete Baby and Childcare. London: Dorling Kindersley (DK), 2008

Kathleen Huggins. The Nursing Mother’s Companion. Boston: The Harvard Common Press, 2005

Nutrition Society of Malaysia Breastfeeding Made Simple – A Practical Guide for the Modern Mum. Kuala Lumpur: VersaComm, 2005

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