Information on Breastfeeding

The two vital considerations for the newborns are breastfeeding and avoidance of infections. In most cases where mothers have inadequate knowledge of artificial feeding, gastroenteritis and malnutrition of the infants are inevitable consequences. Therefore, it is unanimously accepted that all babies, regardless of the type of delivery, should be breastfed exclusively up to six months of age. Exclusive Breastfeeding means giving nothing orally other than colostrums and breast milk. With the introduction of solid foods, breastfeeding may be continued through the first year of life and beyond, if desired.

Advantages of Breastfeeding

• The human milk has an ideal composition of fat, protein, carbohydrates and mineral contents. Medical professionals agree that Breastfeeding provides the most complete form of nutrition for infants, including preemies, low-weight and sick babies.
• It is readily available and more convenient to feed. It contains antibodies that can protect infants from vitamin deficiencies, bacterial and viral infections.
• In addition, breast milk has laxative effects, less danger of allergy, helps involution of the uterus and lessens the incidence of gastrointestinal infections and atopic eczema.
• The incidence of scurvy and rickets can be significantly reduced through breastfeeding.
• Studies suggest that breastfed babies are less likely to develop certain medical problems, including diabetes, high cholesterol and asthma.
• Breastfeeding may also reduce the chances of becoming obese.
• Breastfeeding has important psychological benefit as well. It establishes a healthy mother-child relationship.

Talk to your pediatrician to know more about breastfeeding preparations, its techniques, frequency and duration of feeding. Learn how to take good care of the lactating mother and the infant’s health.

Breastfeeding helps to burn calories and the nursing moms can get back to their pre-pregnancy shapes in shorter time even without dieting or workouts. Several researches indicate that mothers who breastfeed may have reduced risks of type II diabetes, certain breast and ovarian cancers. In most cases, it is observed that early cessation of breastfeeding or not breastfeeding is associated with an increased risk of maternal postpartum depression. Lactating mothers are sometimes advised to avoid caffeinated drinks, alcohols, citrus fruit, spices, etc on their diets. These foods are likely to trigger problems and fussiness in babies.

When breastfeeding is not recommended? The maternal health and medical conditions may affect the health of a nursing baby. If the mother is HIV + or having active tuberculosis or if she is undergoing chemotherapy treatment, then, Breastfeeding is not advisable. However, further researches and case-to-case assessments are vital for analyzing other types of diseases and their effects or associated risk factors. Consult a competent medical practitioner to understand the issue better.