Breastfeeding is crucial for the survival, nutrition and development of infants and the health of mothers. Breast milk helps every child have a healthy start in life. Newborns are protected from infections, have stronger immunity and better digestion due to breast milk. Breastfeeding is also known to improve the mother and child bond. Further, breastfeeding mothers are less likely to develop breast cancer and get back their physical health and body shape easier. Following birth, it is advised to breastfeed a baby exclusively for the first six months before introducing solid food, and continue if it suits the mother and child for the next 24 months. Breastfeeding is a shared responsibility and it is important for everyone in the family to support new moms initiate and maintain breastfeeding. Are you a breastfeeding mom? Speak up and seek help from medical professionals if you are facing challenges in your breastfeeding journey.
Benefits of Breastfeeding for Baby & Mother
Breastfeeding has numerous physical and mental health benefits for both the mother and the child. Breast milk is your baby’s only source of nutrition and the best one. Each feeding of breast milk is tailored to your baby’s needs and developmental stage. Additionally, breastfed babies are less likely to get sick than formula-fed ones.
How it benefits the baby:
- Helps strengthen your baby’s immunity
- Gives all the nutrition needed for the first 6 months
- Breast milk is easier to digest than formula
- It changes over time to suit your baby’s changing needs
- Breast milk contains infection fighting antibodies
How it benefits the mother:
- Helps your body return to its pre-pregnancy stage
- Reduces the chance of cancer in the ovaries or breasts
- Helps your uterus contract
- Helps you bond better with your baby
Important facts about Breastfeeding
- Every baby and mother is different. Don’t compare yourself to others and give yourself unnecessary pressure and stress.
- Some babies can latch soon after birth, while others need a few days to a few weeks to learn well.
- Seek help from a lactation consultant early for breastfeeding problems.
- Don’t blame yourself for insufficient milk as this will affect your mental health.
- Stay hydrated. Your body releases oxytocin during breastfeeding, which triggers your thirst. This helps your body enough water to make breast milk.
- Breastfeeding may be challenging some mothers. Seek help, don’t give up!
Successful Breastfeeding tips
There are several things you can do to increase your chances of breastfeeding success as soon as your baby is delivered. After the birth, keeping your infant with you will encourage a sense of connection and a strong hormonal response that is associated with successful nursing. You will produce more milk if your infant breastfeeds more frequently throughout the first few weeks. According to research, your bay must be fed only breast milk for the first six months of life. Your milk will alter as your baby grows to contain the proper amount of nutrients for him or her. Here are additional tips to follow:
- Hold your baby skin-to-skin
- Get your position and latch right
- Look for early signs to know when to feed your baby
- Watch the baby not the clock
- Feed as per demand
- Seek support if required
- Avoid complementary feeds
Breastfeeding support at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hopital
Our team of experts at the Centre for Mother & Child are here to listen and provide the best lactation support. Whether you’re in the early phases of planning for baby, already expecting, or you’re currently nursing, we were here to assist you and make your breastfeeding journey comfortable and successful. Consult our lactation experts for further assistance. Please find below our website link: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_motherchild.html
