[ad_1]
Breastfeeding is a natural process that is essential for the optimal growth and development of infants and is an extremely beneficial experience for both mother and baby, providing a unique blend of nutrition and emotional bonding. The act of breastfeeding provides mothers with a deep sense of fulfillment and pleasure and strengthens their bond with their babies through close physical contact.
Breastfeeding is a continuous process, and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life. Even after introducing complementary foods, breastfeeding can be continued until the age of 2 years.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Anish Pillai, Lead Consultant – Neonatology and Pediatrics at Motherhood Hospitals, Kharghar, Mumbai, explained, “Breast milk contains essential nutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that stimulate the baby’s growth and brain development. Apart from vital nutrients, breast milk also contains living cells that boost immunity and brain development.”
She added, “Breastfeeding can be a challenging journey for new mothers, due to difficulties in establishing breastfeeding, concerns about milk supply, and social pressure. This can lead to exhaustion and feelings of frustration, guilt, stress, and sadness. Regular support from healthcare professionals, peer groups, and family is important in addressing these issues and promoting successful breastfeeding practices.”
The right way to breastfeed
- Post: The right way to breastfeed starts with the best feeding position. A good position can make it easier for the baby to latch on to the nipple without struggling. Mothers can try out different breastfeeding positions such as the cradle hold (the baby is placed on your stomach and yours facing you), the side-lying position (both the baby and the mother lie comfortably facing each other), the reclining position (the mother leans back and the baby lies on top) and the football position (the baby is tucked under your arm with the body facing up like a football). Each position has its own benefits and can be adapted depending on what feels most comfortable and effective for the mother and the baby.
- Rest: Make sure that both the mother and the baby are equally comfortable while breastfeeding. The position should be comfortable and there should be enough back and arm support for the mother. When the baby is placed in a comfortable position, it becomes easier for him to latch on to the breast and drink milk without any discomfort. Feeding in awkward and uncomfortable positions can be stressful and upset the baby.
The right time to breastfeed
Dr. Aneesh Pillai explains, “Newborns should be fed on time and regularly to ensure that they are getting adequate nutrition. The first breast feeding should be within 1 hour of birth. Placing the baby on top of the mother promotes early skin-to-skin contact. Babies should be fed on demand and most babies breastfeed 8-12 times in a 24-hour period. They often remain hungry throughout the day and night as breast milk is easier to digest. Babies may give several signs of hunger such as sucking their hands or fingers, being restless and crying. Regular feedings can be helpful in stimulating breast milk production naturally.”
They concluded, “Breastfeeding can protect the baby from a number of health problems such as fever, cold, respiratory problems and chronic diseases such as asthma and diabetes. Breastfeeding aids postpartum recovery by helping the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size and reduces the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. The term “liquid gold” underlines the invaluable, nutritional and protective properties of breast milk, emphasizing its vital role in ensuring a healthy start to life.”
[ad_2]
