Benefits of breastfeeding
The benefits of breastfeeding and wearing a sling.
Breastfeeding has benefits for both mum and baby; it is a unique bonding experience from the first skin to skin contact until you decide to stop.
Breast milk is the perfect baby food, containing the ideal fats, proteins, carbohydrates, fluids and antibodies that a baby needs exclusively for the first 6 months of their life, and it’s free! Many women find breastfeeding far easier as there is no need to get up and make bottles especially in the middle of the night, breast milk is always ready and available no need to cool! Especially now the rules have changed with formula and you cannot prepare bottles in advance. There is also no need to buy bottles and sterilizers unless you intend to express. If you are worried dad might feel left out there is the option of expressing and feeding in bottles, however dad can still give plenty of cuddles and can be assigned to other special jobs such as bath time.
On average, breastfed babies have fewer infections in their early life. Research shows that breast milk has antibodies which protect against infection; including gastroenteritis, respiratory illness, urinary infections, and ear infections. In addition the breastfeeding mother makes specific antibodies as soon as she comes into contact with an infection. These antibodies transfer to her milk, ready for the baby to receive as soon as he next comes to the breast. Many studies have looked at the possible long-term health benefits of breastfeeding. There is now good evidence that, on average, the following health problems in later life are less common in those who had been breast fed compared to those who had not: Obesity and overweight, High blood pressure, High cholesterol level, Eczema, Diabetes, Leukemia and Asthma. . There have also been studies to show breastfed babies are more intelligent due to the essential fatty acids.
As mentioned, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life provides maximum benefit. However, there is still a reduction in the risk of developing the above diseases even in partial breastfed babies, and in those who breastfeed for a shorter time. There are also health benefits for mother and baby right up to the age of two. (Your health visitor will be able to provide all this information on request.)
Breastfeeding is the healthiest choice for mothers, too. There is a reduced risk of pre-menopausal breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and fractures from osteoporosis. Women who breastfeed, are also more likely to return to their pre-pregnancy figure faster.
Many women find wearing a baby sling essential for breastfeeding, it allows mum to respond to babies needs quicker and easier, while carrying on with whatever task is in hand. Meanwhile baby feels all snug and secure! Problem suckers, tense babies and back archers tend to feed better in the sling because of the relaxing effect that being carried has on their entire physiology. Breastfeeding in a sling can require a little patience, however once mastered can make life much easier. The sling fabric can be pulled to make feeding in public incredibly discreet and easy.
Written by Emma Jaffer (NHS breast feeding peers supporter)
