Do you also find it difficult to decide whether to breastfeed or not? There are many advantages to breastfeeding, both for your child and for you. However, breastfeeding is not always easy. This article will tell you all you need to know about breastfeeding. Who knows, it may help you to make the right decision.
Why choose breastfeeding?
Most mothers choose breastfeeding because they find it a pleasant and natural way to feed their baby. The baby receives all the nutrients in the right amounts through milk. Did you know that the quantity and composition of the milk is completely attuned to your baby? There are also many substances in breast milk that are very good for your baby’s immune system, such as proteins, antibodies and beneficial bacteria.
What are the benefits of breastfeeding for you? You will regain your weight faster and the contraction of the uterus will be stimulated. So there will be less chance of you suffering from maternal flooding (lochia). An added bonus of breastfeeding is that your period stays longer.
How can a woman breastfeed?
Mammary glands located in the breast provide the milk. How? Well, the milk-producing cells that are in those mammary glands take care of the milk. They take nutrients from your blood and turn them into breast milk. When your baby sucks at your breast, two hormones are released: prolactin and oxytocin.
Firstly, prolactin ensures that breast milk is actually produced and oxytocin causes the muscles around the milk glands to contract. This will cause milk to flow from the nipples.
Disadvantages
Sometimes breastfeeding can be difficult and even troublesome. You can’t always be with your baby when he or she is hungry or thirsty. Fortunately, there are pumps. A breast pump mimics the baby’s sucking and thus collects the breast milk.
Problems with breastfeeding
1 in 3 mothers stop breastfeeding completely within the first month. The main reasons for this are pain or insecurity about milk production or difficulty in positioning the baby.
It is more than normal for a mother to be uncertain. Our big tip is: try to enjoy this intimate moment. Of course, you can always ask a lactation expert for help if you are having problems breastfeeding.
How long to breastfeed?
Mothers are advised by The World Health Organisation (WHO) to breastfeed for a minimum of 6 months and a maximum of 2 years. After 6 months, your child should not only be breastfed but should also start eating solid food. You will then have to stop breastfeeding. Do this at a very slow and gradual pace as both you and your baby need to get used to this new situation.