Breastfeeding is one of the most important processes when nursing a newborn. There is strong scientific evidence to suggest that breastfeeding benefits both the mother and the baby.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends breastfeeding immediately after your baby is born until your baby is at least 2 years old . Most healthcare professionals recommend exclusive breastfeeding for at least 6 months.
Breastmilk contains everything that your baby needs during the first 6 months of his or her life. The composition of breastmilk changes according to your baby's needs and this is especially true during the first month of life.
Breastmilk is accessible, safe, and does not cost money. Breastmilk comes in the exact form and amount needed to support the growth and development of your child. Breastfeeding also creates a bond between you and your baby and can assist with weight loss.
During the first days of your baby's life, your breasts produce a thick and yellowish fluid called colostrum which is high in protein, low in sugar, and loaded with beneficial compounds. Colostrum is truly a wonder food that helps with the development of your newborn's digestive tract. After some days, your breasts will start producing breastmilk in larger amounts to suit your baby's needs.
How breastfeeding benefits a mother
Breastfeeding assists your body to recover after you give birth. During breastfeeding your body releases the hormone oxytocin that helps your uterus to return to its regular size. It can also reduce postpartum bleeding.
There are some studies that suggest that women who breastfeed have a reduced risk of developing breast-or ovarian cancer later in life.
Some studies have also found that breastfeeding may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and cardiovascular disease (including high blood pressure and high cholesterol).
How breastfeeding benefits your baby
Breastmilk contains important antibodies that help your baby fight off viruses and bacteria, and is critical during those tender, early months. This particularly applies to colostrum, the first milk. Colostrum provides high amounts of immunoglobulin A (IgA), as well as several other antibodies.
IgA protects the baby from getting sick by forming a protective layer in the baby’s nose, throat, and digestive system.
Formula doesn’t provide antibody protection for babies. Numerous studies show that babies who are not breastfed are more vulnerable to health issues like pneumonia, diarrhea, and infection.
Breastfeeding may make children smarter
Some studies suggest there may be a difference in brain development between breastfed and formula-fed babies. Studies indicate that breastfed babies have higher intelligence scores and are less likely to develop behavioral problems or have learning difficulties as they grow older.
Protects against diseases such as type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
According to the American Diabetes Association, "Breastfed babies have lower risk of developing type 1 diabetes and becoming overweight or obese later in life, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes."
Protects against allergies and eczema
If there's any history of allergies or eczema in your family (or your partner's family), it may be especially beneficial to breastfeed. Proteins in cow's milk and soymilk formulas can stimulate an allergic reaction, while the proteins in human breast milk are more easily digested.
Common myths about breastfeeding
Here are some common misconceptions about breastfeeding.
Myth 1: Many mothers can’t produce enough milk.
Almost all mothers produce the right amount of milk for their babies. Breastmilk production is determined by how well the baby latches, the frequency of breastfeeding , and how well the baby is removing milk with each feeding. Breastfeeding isn’t a ‘one woman’ job and mothers need support.
Myth 2: You shouldn't breastfeed if you’re sick.
This depends on the illness, but mothers can usually continue to breastfeed when they’re sick. You need to make sure that you receive the right treatment (speak to your doctor about medication and breastfeeding), get plenty of rest, eat well, and keep hydrated.
In many cases, the antibodies that your body produces to treat your disease or illness will pass to your baby, building his or her own defences.
Myth 3: If you go back to work, you’ll have to wean your baby.
Many mothers continue breastfeeding after returning to work. Check the policies in your country and your workplace. You may be able to breastfeed during working hours, to go home during the day to breastfeed, to ask a family member or friend to bring your baby to you, or to express your milk and take it home.
If you don’t have the option to breastfeed during working hours, look for moments during the day to express and then feed your baby when you are at home.
Take home message
Breastfeeding has many benefits for both the mother and the child and is the best nutrition for a developing baby.
This article is written by Dr Itumeleng Buti (MBChB)
References:
1. Allen J, Hector D. Benefits of breastfeeding. New South Wales public health bulletin. 2005;16(4):42-6.
2. Parents. The Benefits of Breastfeeding for Mom and Baby. [Internet] Parents Network; Carole Anderson Lucia, Jessica Hartshorn, and Carole Anderson Lucia; [ Updated 2021, May 27; Cited 2022, February 27]. Available from: https://www.parents.com/baby/breastfeeding/basics/the-benefits-of-breastfeeding/
3. Healthy Children.org. Benefits of Breastfeeding for Mom. [Internet] American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Communications and Media; [Updated 2016, July 25; Cited 2022 February 27] .Available from: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/breastfeeding/Pages/Benefits-of-Breastfeeding-for-Mom.aspx
4. ClevelandClinic. The Benefits of Breastfeeding for Baby & for Mom. [Internet] Cleveland Clinic; Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio; [Updated 2018, January 1 Cited 2022, February 28] Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/15274-the-benefits-of-breastfeeding-for-baby--for-mom
5. Center of Disease Control and Prevention. About Breastfeeding: Why it matters. [Internet] Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion; [Updated 2021 August 23, Cited 2022 February 26]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/about-breastfeeding/why-it-matters.html
6. Healthline.11 Benefits of Breastfeeding for Both Mom and Baby. [Internet] Healthline Media; Bjarnardottir Adda; [ Updated 2020, August 13; Cited 2022, February 27]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/breastfeeding/11-benefits-of-breastfeeding#benefits-for-baby
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