Benefits & Types of Breastfeeding for Mother and Child

Breastfeeding is the natural process of feeding a baby with milk directly from the mother's breast. It provides essential nutrients and antibodies that are vital for the infant's growth and development. Breast milk is specifically designed to fulfil the nutritional requirements of infants and is essential during the initial phases of life.

Types of Breastfeeding 

There are several types of breastfeeding, which include:

• Exclusive breastfeeding: Exclusively providing breast milk to the baby, without introducing any other liquids or solid foods, for the initial six months.This is recommended by CDC,WHO .
• Predominant breastfeeding: Breast milk is the primary source of nutrition, but the baby may also receive water or water-based drinks.
• Partial breastfeeding: The baby is fed both breast milk and commercial infant formula every day.
• Complementary feeding: Breast milk is combined with solid or semi-solid foods as the baby grows.

What are the Benefits of Breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding is beneficial for both the baby and the mother. It's more than just a feeding method; it's a complete health package with numerous advantages.

For Babies

• Optimal nutrition: Breast milk is the most complete form of infant nutrition, providing the perfect balance of nutrients needed for healthy growth. Its composition keeps on changing according to the baby's requirements. DHÀ a polyunsaturated fatty acid in mother's milk helps in baby's brain development. Breastfed babies are less likely to be obese overweight or develop diabetes during later life.
• Immunity boost: Breast milk contains a high concentration of antibodies that provide essential protection for infants against infections and various diseases. Breastfeeding reduces the chances of a baby developing ear infections and allergies.It also causes bouts of diarrhoea.
• Cognitive development: Studies suggest that breastfed babies may have a higher IQ due to the brain-boosting fatty acids found in breast milk.
• Lower risk of SIDS: Breastfeeding is linked to a lower likelihood of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

For Mothers

• Weight loss: Breastfeeding burns extra calories, helping mothers return to their pre-pregnancy weight more quickly.
• Reduced risk of diseases: It reduces the likelihood of developing breast and ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and postpartum depression.
• Emotional bonding: Breastfeeding strengthens the emotional connection between mother and child.

Components of Breast Milk

Breast milk is composed of several key components:

• Water: Human breast milk  contains about 87%–88% water,hence breast fed babies don’t need any water
• Proteins: Essential for growth and immune defence; includes casein and whey proteins that help in building and repairing tissues.
• Fats: Provide energy and support brain development; contain essential fatty acids like DHA that are crucial for neurological growth.
• Carbohydrates: Mainly lactose, which aids calcium absorption and provides a primary energy source for infants' rapid growth.
• Vitamins: Important for overall health; include vitamins A, C, D which support vision, immune function, and bone health.Vitamin D is insufficient so infant may requires supplementation.
• Minerals: Include calcium, iron, and zinc, essential for bone development, blood health, and immune system functionality.
• Antibodies: Immunoglobulins that protect against infections, bolster the infant's immune system, and help prevent illnesses.
• Besides all the above, milk is also a source of micro RNA which helps immunoprotection.

What are the Benefits of Breastfeeding by Month?

Breastfeeding benefits evolve as the baby grows:

• Month 1-3: Strengthens the baby's immune system, supports healthy weight gain, and establishes a strong bond with the mother.
• Month 4-6: Continues to provide essential nutrients for brain development and protects against common infections as the baby grows.
• Month 7-9: Supplements solid foods with key nutrients, maintains immunity and promotes healthy digestion.
• Month 10-12: Provides emotional comfort, boosts immunity, and ensures a balanced diet alongside increasing solid food intake.

Benefits of Extended Breastfeeding

Extended breastfeeding, beyond one year, offers continued immune support, nutrition, and emotional security. It can also enhance the connection between mother and child, thereby supporting the child's emotional resilience.

Common Breastfeeding Challenges

Breastfeeding, while beneficial, can come with challenges:

• Sore nipples: Breastfeeding can cause sore nipples due to improper latching, which can lead to pain, cracks, and discomfort during nursing sessions.
• Low milk supply: Some mothers experience low milk supply, making it difficult to meet their baby's nutritional needs, leading to concerns and stress.
• Engorgement: Engorgement occurs when breasts are overfilled with milk, causing them to become swollen, hard, and painful, impacting comfort and feeding.
• Mastitis: Mastitis is a breast infection that leads to painful inflammation, redness, and flu-like symptoms, requiring prompt medical attention.

Breastfeeding Tips

Nurturing your baby through breastfeeding can be more comfortable and effective with these essential tips:

• Get comfortable: Find a relaxed position for both you and your baby, using pillows if needed, to make breastfeeding more enjoyable and stress-free.
• Latch properly: A correct latch is key to preventing soreness and ensuring your baby gets enough milk. Aim for a deep latch covering most of the areola. Baby's chin should be touching the breast.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids is vital to maintaining consistent milk production and keeping you energised throughout the day.
• Eat nutritiously: A well-balanced diet supports your energy levels and enhances the nutritional quality of your breast milk, benefiting both you and your baby.

When to Stop Breastfeeding?

Deciding when to stop breastfeeding is a personal choice influenced by various factors. Many mothers gradually wean their babies around 6 to 12 months, introducing solid foods while continuing to breastfeed. Some may continue breastfeeding into the toddler years for comfort and nutritional benefits. Key considerations include the baby's readiness for weaning, the mother's comfort and lifestyle, and any medical advice. Ultimately, it's important to make the decision that best supports both you and your baby's well-being.

Conclusion

Breastfeeding is a natural and beneficial practice that provides numerous advantages for both the mother and the baby. From optimal nutrition to emotional bonding and long-term health benefits, breastfeeding is an investment in the future well-being of both mother and child. However, it's important to consult with healthcare providers to tailor the breastfeeding experience to your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the five positives of breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding provides optimal nutrition, strengthens the immune system, promotes cognitive development, supports healthy weight, and reduces the risk of diseases in children.

Are babies who are breastfed smarter?

Studies suggest that breastfeeding can enhance brain development, leading to higher IQ levels in children.

Why is breastfeeding positive?

Breastfeeding is positive because it promotes health, strengthens the bond between mother and baby, and offers long-term benefits for both.

How many months of breastfeeding is good?

Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months is recommended, with continued breastfeeding along with complementary foods for up to two years or beyond.

What age is best to stop breastfeeding?

The best age to stop breastfeeding varies, but many health organisations recommend continuing as long as the mother and child mutually desire it.