The Importance Of Breastfeeding

A few decades ago, probably when you were a child, breastfeeding was not in style. Breastfeeding was not something that was encouraged as it is today. Doctors did not fully understand how wonderful it is for a newborn baby. For that reason and a few others, many mothers went directly to the bottle, often times without even attempting to breastfeed.

Now that we know how nourishing breast milk is for your baby, it is a practice highly encouraged by doctors and health care professionals alike. Breast milk supports brain function and provides valuable nutrients not available anywhere else. It is so special that every mother’s milk is slightly different, tailored to her own baby’s needs. A baby’s immune system is directly affected by breast milk.

Each feeding time is a very important time of the day, it allows the mother and child time to bond without any distractions. Many new mothers can feel strange holding their new baby, but feeding time is when the mother really gets to know her baby and feel comfortable with him or her.

Milk induced sleep is one of the sweetest things a mother will experience. Newborn babies love to be held and they also love to eat. When you combine the two you get a very sleepy baby who will cuddle in their mother’s arms long after the feeding is over. Even when you are trying to instill a naptime, no mother can resist the urge to keep rocking their baby after the feeding is over – at least once or twice.

When just starting out, a new mother may encounter some complications including sore and blistered nipples, mastitis or improper latching on the baby’s part. It is very important to overcome these issues, and although it may not seem like it, they can be overcome.

Within the first week or two, any sore or blistered nipples should clear up. It can seem like quite a struggle but try bringing a cup of tea to feeding time. This will help soothe the mother and help her get through the initial pain.

Mastitis can be a very painful problem. It’s basically the mother’s milk backing up in her system. The best remedy – though always check with your doctor as he may want to prescribe antibiotics – is to feed through the problem. Warm baths can also help soothe the engorged breasts.

Although most babies have a built-in latching instinct, some babies latch improperly, causing a lot of pain to the mother. These problems are usually caught early and most hospitals have a lactation specialist that will determine if your baby is latching on wrong. If you continue to have problems in the first week, you should consult your doctor.

Not only is breast milk good for the baby, but it’s good for the mother as well. Mothers that breast feed for at least six months show a dramatically reduced risk of various types of cancer including breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Through breast feeding, the mother will lose the extra weight she gained while pregnant and it will also help her uterus contract to its pre-baby size.

Despite any complications one might have breastfeeding; it will be the best experience a new mother will have. There will come a time in life when you look back on the experience and wish you had breast fed for longer.