September 17, 2011

The Importance of Breastfeeding

Why this Topic?
I chose to discuss breastfeeding because I am a person whose mother did not want to breastfeed. I feel that I could have benefited from her doing so in regards to being healthier. As I have grown, I have been the recipient of many colds/viruses and infections. My husband, who was breastfed as a baby, never seems to get sick! It is important that women who are trying to conceive, or are pregnant, know the benefits to breastfeeding their child. 


The Benefits of Breastfeeding:


  • The joyful bonding with your baby
  • The perfect nutrition only you can provide
  • The cost savings
  • The health benefits for both mother and baby
***Keep in mind that breastfeeding is a learned skill. It requires patience and practice. For some women, the learning stages can be frustrating and uncomfortable. And some situations make breastfeeding even harder, such as babies born early or health problems in the mother. The good news is that it will get easier, and support for breastfeeding mothers is growing
Source: http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/breastfeeding-guide/BreastfeedingGuide-General-English.pdf


Breastfeeding in China?
Research shows that China is behind other countries when it comes to the recommended exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of the child's life. A survey of 15,000 women was done to see how long they were breastfeeding and most did not make it through the first four months. They usually turned to formulas and other supplements for the infant's nutrition. Only 52% percent of the women were able to follow through with the exclusive breastfeeding for six months. The Chinese government is worried because their children are growing at slower rates than other countries' children who are breastfed.


Source: http://www.china.org.cn/english/health/220664.htm


Informing Parents
The information I have learned about breastfeeding can impact the infant teachers communication to parents about proper nutrition for their babies. The nutritional and health benefits that come from breastfeeding will be important for new parents to know so that they continue it for at least six months. Even frozen or chilled breast milk is better than formula, as the child gains antibodies and builds immunity from mother's milk. 

2 comments:

  1. Hi Clara,
    I agree that breast feeding is an area that women need to learn to feel comfortable with. I was raised in a very conservative family and had never thought about breast feeding when I gave birth to my two boys and now that I reflect back, they both also endured asthma and allergies. My grandson was born premature (1 lb., and 14 oz.) and the NICCU was able to assist his mother to pump and he received her milk. I believe that was one of the contributing factors in his remarkable outcome. He is now 9 and very healthy. Thanks for sharing your experience.

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  2. Hi Clara, I believe that it is healthier for the baby to get their feedings and nutrition from breast milk. Since there are so many issues with recalls and contamination in our food,that it is even safer as well for the mother and baby. I never breast fed due to health issues, but my daughter did and my grandson was so healthy and joyful. He weighed 8 pounds and 11 ounces at birth. The mother nor the baby had any complications.

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