Breastfeeding

Health Benefits

The health benefits of breastfeeding have been getting more attention in both alternative and mainstream medical circles. Research has shown that breastfed babies have less illnesses in the first few years of life than those who are not fed breastmilk. Use of breastmilk is also associated lower incidence of certain autoimmune diseases.

Antibodies from the mother is passed down to the infant via breastmilk. This gives breast milk an immune boosting property for the baby.

The World Health Organization recommends exclusively breastfeeding for the first six months of life and continuing breast milk for two years. The American Academy of pediatrics also recommends six months of exclusive breastfeeding.

Prevalance of Breast feeding

The prevalence of breastfeeding was at a low during the 1970's. During this time, many women chose to formula bottle feed rather than to feed breastmilk. Today, more women are breastfeeding as more information is revealed about its health benefits.

Some women find breastfeeding difficult to maintain, especially if they go back to work. Women who breastfeed and work will need to pump to maintain their milk supply and to supplement their baby via bottle while at work. Breastfeeding can also present a great challenge in the first few weeks and months while the infant still needs to eat during the night. Frequent feeding at night can prove very exhausting for the mother. As a result, many women are not exclusively breastfeeding by the time their baby is six months old.

The number of women who abandon breastfeeding would likely decrease with greater support from friends and family. Breastfeeding can be physically and emotionally demanding and without support from those in their lives,it can be difficult to maintain. Additionally, many new moms believe that they do not have enough milk and thus, begin supplementing right away. It is very rare for mother's not to have enough milk to feed their infant. With proper guidance from a lactation counselor (see the La Leche League International link below), most women should be able to produce enough milk for their baby or babies.

Some women are not able to breastfeed due to previous surgeries or existing health problems. These mothers should not despair nor should they feel like lessor mothers because of this. In the end, love and attention are the most important things a baby can receive.

External Links

• La Leche League International
• BFAR is a resource for breastfeeding mothers who have had breast surgery

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