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Breastfeeding: A vital part of public health responsibility
Breastfeeding is an integral part of the motherhood journey. Breast milk is vital to the mental and physical well-being of any child. Breastfeeding is the most critical link between a mother and her child. Breast milk is an essential source of nutrients for the child. Breastfeeding is vital to a child as well as the mother. Any child should be fed with breast milk for at least six months after birth because this helps protect her child from various diseases and infections. Breastfeeding in the first six months is a foundation for the child’s well-being. The child not only benefits during childhood but has long-term benefits as well. Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
The first milk of the mother, known as Colostrum, is the first sort of vaccine for the child as it is equipped with immunoglobulin. Even if this yellow milk is in small quantity, it has antibodies, vitamins, and other growth factors. This is why breastfeeding should start within 30 minutes of childbirth. The earlier the breastfeeding starts, the better it is for the child.
Why start breastfeeding early?
The baby’s body is most active 30 to 60 minutes after birth. Therefore, the nutrients in breast milk are well absorbed by the baby’s body. Also, the early onset of breastfeeding does not cause breast swelling and pain and also reduces postpartum haemorrhage.
How long to breastfeed?
Breastfeeding should continue for as many days as the mother and baby want it to. There is no medically fixed period for that. According to the World Health Organization, a child should be breastfed for at least 2 years or more. It is suitable for the health of both children and mothers. Up to 2 years, the child gets all the nutrition from the mother’s milk. Therefore, a child should be breastfed for at least 2 years.
Breastfeeding is a gift from nature to women. It is essential for the health and social aspects of motherhood.
Benefits to the baby
Breastfeeding prevents asthma and ear infections by creating a protective covering in the baby’s nose and throat.
The baby quickly digests the mother’s milk. So the baby does not have digestive problems. On the contrary, it helps to improve the baby’s digestion.
Breastfeeding is a readily available diet without cost. Some children are allergic to cow’s milk. Breastfeeding is the perfect and nutritious food for the baby.
Mother’s milk helps to improve the baby’s intelligence and vision. It also helps to build a good physical and emotional relationship with the mother. This is because it is high in fatty acids, which help in the good development of the baby’s brain.
Benefits to the mother
Protects against breast and ovarian cancer
It prevents obesity and keeps the body in shape.
Important tips
Breastfeeding can be done in any comfortable position. The baby should latch onto the breast in a proper position.
The black portion on the breast, called Areola, should be completely in the baby’s mouth while feeding.
Sometimes, while feeding, the baby might close its eyes and take a nap, giving the impression that the baby is satisfied, and we try to keep the baby down. But the fact is that breastfeeding is like exercise for the baby, and the baby may get tired and take a nap. But the feeding needs to be completed and must be continued.
While the baby takes a nap, we might also feel that the breast milk is gone and change the baby’s position to another breast. But we should not do that.
When the baby leaves the nipple, it means that the breast is over, but the baby is still not satisfied. So, the other breast should be offered to the baby.
While breastfeeding, the milk that comes first is called foremilk. It is thin and a little bluish in colour, and it contains proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Hindmilk, which comes later, is a little thicker and has fat content, which satisfies the baby. Both are important for the baby.
When the baby is satisfied, we should remember that the other breast should be offered to the baby alternately next time.
If the baby latches onto only one breast properly and does not accept the other breast, this means that the position is not comfortable for the baby.
If milk remains after breastfeeding, we need to express or take out the milk. Otherwise, we will feel heavy in the breasts and might have problems next time while breastfeeding. Sometimes, this can also lead to pus formation.
Breastfeeding is essential and has long-term effects on any child’s life. Breastfeeding is the foundation of a healthy life because it is crucial to his overall physical and intellectual development.
FAQs
Why is breastfeeding important for a child’s health? Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and antibodies that protect a child from infections, aid digestion, and support physical and mental development. It lays the foundation for long-term health.
How long should a mother breastfeed her child? According to the World Health Organization, breastfeeding exclusively for at least the first six months and continuing for two years or more alongside complementary foods is recommended.
What are the benefits of breastfeeding for the mother? Breastfeeding can help reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, support weight management, and prevent obesity in mothers. It also strengthens the mother-child bond.
When should breastfeeding start after childbirth? Breastfeeding should ideally begin within the first 30 minutes after childbirth. Early initiation helps with nutrient absorption and can reduce complications like breast swelling and postpartum haemorrhage.
5. How does breastfeeding benefit a child’s immune system? The first milk, colostrum, is rich in immunoglobulins and antibodies that act like a natural vaccine, providing essential immunity and protection against infections and illnesses.
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