Breastfeeding is a natural process with health and psychological benefits for both the child and the mother. Breast milk is a means of feeding the child, providing the child with essential nutrients and containing antibodies and white blood cells that protect the child from disease. This contributes to promoting the child's health and immunity and to the child's proper mental development. This promotes cognitive and mental growth in the early years of life.
Maternal breastfeeding benefits
When the mother breastfeeds, the hormone "oxytocin", a hormone that stimulates contractions of the womb, is excreted. These contractions help:
- Uterine returns to normal size faster after birth
- Contraception
- Cleaning the uterus of placenta residue
- Reduce postpartum bleeding, reducing maternal mortality
- Burning accumulated fat due to pregnancy helps in weight loss naturally and healthily.
The benefits of breastfeeding for children:
1-Children who are naturally breastfeeding are less likely to develop allergies, obesity, asthma, and diabetes, at later stages of their lives
2-Breastfeeding reduces the risk of middle ear infections and respiratory and digestive diseases. as well as diseases such as diarrhea and pneumonia, which are major causes of child mortality.
3-Strengthen the child's immune system during the first months of his life.
4-The foundation stone for building a strong mother-child relationship, and the child's psychological and mental development through:
Developing children's emotional and behavioral organization skills
Breastfeeding babies have stronger speaking skills at an early age and better motor skills.
Frequently Asked Questions about Breastfeeding FAQs
Can breastfeeding reduce your risk of depression?
Postpartum depression is a common complication, and its symptoms may be such as insomnia, difficulty attaching to a child and guilt, loss of activity and energy, and repeating thoughts of suicide. The breastfeeding process stimulates the release of the hormone oxytocin "happy hormone", which improves mental state by reducing levels of stress and depression in the blood.
What is the impact of breastfeeding on a child's weight?
Breastfeeding plays a preventive role against childhood obesity and has an important role in maintaining a healthy BMI in early childhood children
Is every mother able to breastfeed?
Every woman involved can breastfeed.
There are rare cases where a mother needs to consult a specialist before starting breastfeeding.
Is breastfeeding painful?
No, breastfeeding isn't supposed to be painful.
There can be sensitivity in nipples during the first days after birth
If you are in pain, we advise you to:
put a little breast milk on the nipple to relieve pain
If a wound or cracks appear you should head for medical assistance
Does the mother need supplements during breastfeeding?
There is no need for dietary supplements. We advise breastfeeding mothers to ensure a diet rich in all essential nutrients, and organize mealtimes and not just one meal.
Can medication be taken during breastfeeding?
Most medicines are safe for use during breastfeeding. It is important to consult a doctor regarding the use of medications during breastfeeding.
Weaning
Preferably not to do until the young person is at least 12 months old.
Breast infection problem due to breastfeeding
It is a breast infection that may occur in nurses as a result of a blockage in milk ducts. Bacteria can enter the breast through a cracked nipple and cause infection. The affected area becomes painful, in this case, if the pain is severe we advise you to consult a doctor.
The importance of counselling and psychological support
If you have questions or questions about breastfeeding or feel overwhelmed or pressured, seek advice on breastfeeding, psychological support, or dietary advice, you can get support from healthcare professionals as well as breastfeeding counselors.
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