Breastfeeding Awareness
When it comes to feeding
babies there is nothing as good as breast milk. For most
full-term, healthy babies breast milk is the only food
needed for the first six months of life.
Breast milk provides
protection from infections by sharing the mother's
immunities with the baby, until the baby has a chance to
build up an immune system. According to the U.S.
department of Health & Human Services' Office on Women's
Health, breastmilk contains more than 200
infection-fighting agents that cannot be replicated.
Studies show that babies who
aren't breastfed exclusively for the first six months are
more likely to develop asthma, allergies, and obesity in
childhood. They are also more likely to suffer more colds,
flu, ear infections, and other respiratory illnesses, and
make more visits to the doctor.
While
many Americans know that the best form of nutrition for
babies is breastmilk, our nation has one of the lowest
breastfeeding rates in the developed world - only 29% of
mothers breastfeed their babies at six months postpartum.
Most expectant mothers in our
country start out with the intention to breastfeed,
however more than half change their minds in the early
postpartum period.
Fears and doubts about
breastfeeding, the perceived inconvenience, and practical
barriers such as returning to work are certainly
contributing factors. Learning more about the added
benefits of breastfeeding and the negative consequences
associated with not breastfeeding will help expectant and
soon-to-be expectant mothers and their partners make
informed decisions.
Breastfeeding requires
practice and patience as you and your baby find what works
for you both. Here are some tips to increase your success:
-
Make a commitment to breastfeed your child
-
Take a breastfeeding class, join a support group, or
read a book about breastfeeding while you are pregnant
-
Consult a lactation specialist before you are released
from the hospital
-
Use your local maternal and child health nurse as a
breastfeeding resource
-
Begin breastfeeding your baby as soon as possible after
birth
-
Breastfeed whenever your baby shows signs of hunger
-
Ask for help and support from family and friends
-
Wear tops that allow you to breastfeed your baby with
little effort
-
Use a blanket or shawl for coverage when breastfeeding
around others
-
Plan ahead with your employer to accommodate
breastfeeding once you return to work
For more information on Breast feeding visit
DR.niyaf's
This
site does not provide medical or any other health care advice, diagnosis or
treatment. The site and its services, including the information above, are for
informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical
advice, examination, diagnosis or treatment.Always seek the advice of your
doctor. Medical information changes rapidly
and, some information
may be out of date.
