The Benefits and Challenges of Breastfeeding and Useful Tips

Benefits of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding offers many benefits for both the baby and the mother. It provides the perfect nutrition for infants. Breast milk contains the right balance of nutrients that a baby needs for healthy growth and development.

Breastfeeding also helps to strengthen the bond between mother and baby. The close physical contact during breastfeeding can make the baby feel secure and loved.

For mothers, breastfeeding can help in losing pregnancy weight faster. It burns extra calories and helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size more quickly.

Challenges of Breastfeeding

Physical Discomfort

Many mothers experience physical discomfort while breastfeeding. Sore nipples and engorged breasts are common issues. Proper latching techniques can help reduce these problems. Nipple shields and silverette nursing cups are great tools that could help ease the pain. 

Time and Commitment

Breastfeeding requires a significant time commitment. Newborns need to be fed frequently, which can be demanding for mothers. This can make it difficult to manage other responsibilities. Having a roster and planner would help ease this process. 

Tips From Midwives

Sometimes having skin-to-skin will make it easy for your baby to attach. Its normal for babies to need help. Midwives may encourage you to have skin-to-skin as soon as the baby is born. As it helps get breastfeeding off to a good start. A midwife, partner or others can help by arranging pillows, blankets and generally encouraging you. Babies don't like too many people touching them. Continue to keep the baby close to you, with lots of cuddles and skin-to-skin contact over the first few days and weeks. Keeping your baby close day and night will help you understand their hunger and tired signs.

Colostrum (first milk) is a concentrated milk which is important for your baby’s immune system. Babies only need small amounts in the early days. Look for signs that your baby is ready to feed, such as opening their mouth, licking their lips and searching behaviour or bringing their hand to their mouth. Babies are more alert and show clear hunger signs within a couple of days. They will breastfeed eight to twelve or more times in a 24-hour period.