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One thing is essential to all living things – food. Food provides life and ensures survival. Food, in form of breastfeeding, is what new born babies need, most especially from their mothers. This is because it provides all the nutrition a baby needs during the first six months of life, satisfies hunger, and quenches thirst at the same time. Mothers who intend to bond with their newborns can use this experience to fast track the entire process.
The WHO recommends the administration of Colostrum, as it is the perfect food for the newborn. The content is a yellowish, sticky breast milk produced towards the end of pregnancy and feeding should be initiated within the first hour after birth.
There is an extensive list of health benefits of breastfeeding for babies, and some of these include;
- development of the eyes, brain and other body systems
- buildup of the baby’s resistance to infection and diseases
- reduction of the risk of childhood or lifetime obesity
- development of the baby’s jaws
- the milk’s active factors protect the baby while the immune system develops etc.
Mothers are not left out as some benefits are also made available to them. Asides its affordability, it is convenient and readily available. It also;
- aids to soothe the baby, providing the mother relaxation
- extends the period between menstruation
- reduces the risk of hemorrhage shortly after delivery
- reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
As vital as breastfeeding is to babies and mothers, mothers need to take note that the familiarity of this activity varies from woman to woman, and for some, it may need to be learnt. The key to successful breastfeeding is comfortable and good attachment. Once your baby is well-attached to the breast, experiencing breastfeeding problems like cracked or sore nipples will be less likely to occur. However, if you experience health issues while breastfeeding, endeavour to consult a specialist.
