You are all your newborn needs – from warmth to comfort to security and food. The time a postpartum mother spends nourishing her baby is undoubtedly one of her most cherished moments. Breastfeeding has many benefits both for the mother and the newborn. Also called nursing, it is a full-fledged meal for the newborn nursing child. It contains all the essential nutrients essential for the developing infant. 

But is that all? No. It is so much more. Read to find out.

Why is Breastfeeding Important for Both the Mother & the Baby? 

Breastfeeding is the best way to care for a newborn child. While providing nutrients for the baby’s growth, it strengthens the bond between the mother and child. Well, it’s not only crucial for the newborn or nursing child, but it presents numerous health benefits to the postpartum mother too. In this blog post, we will look into why breastfeeding is so important for both mother and baby and explore ways it can benefit them both.

Nutritional Benefits of Breast Milk for Babies: 

Breast milk being one of the best sources of nutrition for infants, contains many essential vitamins, minerals, antibodies, and other vital nutrients needed for an infant’s development.  

Complete Source of  Baby Nutrition:

• A perfect source of complete nutrition: Breastmilk contains all the essential nutrients like casein, α-lactalbumin, lactoferrin, secretory immunoglobulin IgA, lysozyme, and serum albumin. 
• Strong immune system: Breast milk is rich in antibodies and other immune-boosting substances that help protect the baby against infections.
• Brain development: Breast milk contains essential fatty acids required to develop a healthy brain for the baby.
• Digestive health: Breast milk is easily digested by the baby’s immature digestive system.
• Healthy weight gain: Breastfed babies tend to gain weight at a more beneficial rate than formula-fed babies. 

Getting started with breastfeeding can be a complex process for new moms. The great news is that it doesn’t have to be as daunting as it seems! With the correct information and support system, you can make this transition into motherhood much smoother. And before anything else, you must understand its various health benefits. Read more about the advantages of breastfeeding here.

Health benefits of breastfeeding, for both the postpartum mother and the baby:

• Health benefits of breastfeeding for the newborn:

Breastfeeding has long-term benefits for the baby, from childhood and into adulthood. Any amount of breast milk has only a positive effect. 

• Breastfeeding helps reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), asthma, allergies, and other immune-related conditions in infants.
• Studies have shown that breastfed babies tend to have better cognitive development, higher IQ scores, and improved neurodevelopmental outcomes. 
• Breastfeeding reduces the risk of constipation, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues in babies. 
• Breastfed babies are less likely to develop colic, reflux, and other digestive problems.
• It helps prevent overfeeding and promotes healthy weight gain, which may reduce the risk of obesity later in life.

Giving nothing but breast milk is advised for about the first six months of the baby’s life. Later the baby can be given breast milk besides solid foods for as long as you and your baby want. An interesting thing about breastmilk is that it adapts to your baby’s changing needs with growth. 

• Health benefits of breastfeeding for the postpartum mother:

Breastfeeding and making breast milk also have health benefits for the postpartum mother. 

• Oxytocin, a hormone that helps the uterus contract, reduces postpartum bleeding and promotes faster recovery of the uterus to its pre-pregnancy size. 
• Breastfeeding also helps the postpartum mother’s body return to its pre-pregnancy weight faster by burning extra calories.
• It stimulates the release of hormones such as prolactin and oxytocin, which contribute to the mother’s emotional well-being and reduces the risk of postpartum depression.
• It reduces the risk of several diseases like breast cancer, osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. 

Breastfeeding, a unique journey for each mother and an environmentally friendly choice:

Breastfeeding also has a low carbon footprint, as it does not require producing or disposing of formula cans or bottles, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

It is important to consult with a lactation specialist or a healthcare provider for personalized advice on breastfeeding and to ensure that both the postpartum mother and the newborn are receiving the appropriate care and support. 

Every mom has her breastfeeding journey and her own story to tell. From feeling empowered to feeling frustrated to not wanting to breastfeed at all, every mom’s experience is different. Nevertheless, breastfeeding is widely recognized as one of the best ways to provide optimal nutrition and support the mother’s and baby’s health and well-being. 

Remember that breastfeeding is a learned skill for both the mother and the baby, and it may take time and practice to establish a successful breastfeeding relationship. Breastfeeding can present challenges, but most challenges can be overcome with patience, perseverance, and support. Remember to take care of yourself, trust your instincts as a mother, and seek help when needed. Each breastfeeding journey is unique, and it’s essential to find what works best for both the mother and the baby. To know more about lactation support and counseling services, click here.