Learn about breastfeeding this World Breastfeeding Week
Breast milk is the first nutrients many people receive when they first come into this world. It is an important and pivotal part of every child’s diet. And yet only about half of all infants 0-6 months old are exclusively breastfed. The first seven days in August are dedicated to World Breastfeeding Week and is organized by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action. In support of this celebration, check out this Q&A about common breastfeeding questions.
When should you breastfeed?
Most research supports breastfeeding in children 0-23 months old. The first two years of a person’s life includes quick growth and development, and it is important they are receiving the nutrition they need. Within the first hour of birth, it is recommended to begin breastfeeding. For the first six months of life, exclusive breastfeeding is recommended. After six months and until two years, combine breastfeeding with safe, solid foods.
While breastfeeding, it is important for breast milk to be available whenever the child is hungry. Don’t limit breastfeeding times, instead keep an open and flexible schedule.
What nutrition is found from breastfeeding?
Breast milk serves as a critical source of energy and nutrition for infants. Half of a child’s energy needs come from breast milk when they are 6-12 months old. The antibodies found in breast milk can help protect the baby from illness. When breastfeeding, the antibodies from the mother are passed to the baby and this helps develop a stronger immune system. Additionally, as a baby grows, the mother’s milk will naturally change to meet the nutritional needs of their child.
What are the benefits of breastfeeding?
Numerous different studies have shown various benefits associated with breastfeeding infants. These benefits include but are not limited to:
· Lower chances of childhood morbidity and mortality.
· A reduced risk of ovarian and breast cancer found in mothers who breastfeed.
· Lactation Amenorrhoea Method which acts as a natural birth control that induces a lack of menstruation.
· A correlation between babies who were breast feed and adults with a higher IQ.
· A lower risk of chronic diseases including asthma, obesity, type 1 diabetes.
· Decreased risk of developing ear infections and stomach bugs.
What are some ways to support current breastfeeding mothers?
Less than 50% of Indiana infants are likely to be breastfed after six months according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Mothers may stop breastfeeding early for a few reasons. These can include:
· A lack of family support and cultural norms.
· An unsupportive work policy and/or lack of parental leave.
· Issues with the breastfeeding process including lactation and latching.
If you have a family member or friend going through the breastfeeding stage, stay supportive. Breastfeeding infants can put a large demand and strain on mothers. Be flexible with your time with a mother, as she may need to feed her child at any time. Offer encouragement, but don’t overwhelm a new mother.
If a co-worker or employee is breastfeeding, stay flexible with their work schedule. Many companies are working to support maternity leave and are developing places to pump and store breast milk. Be mindful of a new mother’s needs and practice patience for them.
If you or someone close to you is struggling with breastfeeding, please reach out for help. You can ask your primary health care provider, your OBGYN, or feel free to call our board-certified lactation consultants at IU Health Ball Memorial Lactation Support Services at 765-747-4444.
Dr. Sadia Abbasi is the director of the pediatric hospitalist team at Indiana University Health–Ball Memorial Hospital. Learn more at iuhealth.org.