Special to The Island News
New moms want the best for their babies, and breastfeedingis one way to give them the best start at day one. This August, National Breastfeeding Month, learn about some of the benefits – for both mothers and infants – of breastfeeding.
“New moms require lots of support when it comes to breastfeeding. Learning what to expect before your baby is born can help you feel more comfortable when navigating the process,” says Andrea Farr, RN, a breastfeeding support team member at Beaufort Memorial Collins Birthing Center. “Breast milk contains all the nutrition your baby needs as well as numerous health factors to keep your baby healthy and happy.”
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends feeding your baby only breast milk for the first six months of life and continuing for as long as you and your baby mutually desire. According to the AAP, the components of breast milk are beneficial for all stages in infant and toddler growth.
For infants, there are several benefits that come from breastfeeding, including:
- Fewer digestive issues, such as diarrhea or constipation;
- Fewer lifelong (chronic) illnesses and ear infections and stronger immune systems overall; and
- Lower rates of infant mortality and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Mothers also benefit from breastfeeding in both their short- and long-term health. Breastfeeding mothers experience fewer postpartum complications, such as heavy bleeding and depression, as well as decreased risk of reproductive cancers and chronic diseases. Some mothers may think that breastfeeding will interfere with their jobs, however, research has found that mothers with infants who breastfeed miss less work because their infants are healthier. There are also laws that help to support breastfeeding families by allowing mothers time to breastfeed or express milk with the help of hand or electric pumps.
In the long term, mothers who breastfeed have lower rates of ovarian and certain breast cancers, as well as Type 2 diabetes, than women who have never breastfed.
If you choose to breastfeed, you should maintain a well-balanced diet and drink plenty of water. In addition, stick to the following guidelines:
- Caffeine can be consumed but in moderation. Limit your caffeine intake to the equivalent of two to three cups of coffee per day. The caffeine should not affect your baby. However, premature babies may be more sensitive to caffeine, so you may consider drinking less. Every baby is different, so if you find your infant is more irritable after you drink caffeinated beverages, reconsider when you drink them or the amounts you drink.
- Avoid alcohol, as it easily passes into breast milk.
- Avoid seafood high in mercury, such as swordfish and certain varieties of tuna.
- Talk to your OB-GYN about whether a multivitamin is necessary. Some women may benefit from supplements, especially those who follow restrictive diets.
Support systems for moms - This National Breastfeeding Month, the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action is focusing on creating sustainable support systems for moms.
- The South Carolina Breastfeeding Coalition has announced their new Geographical Systems Information Lactation Resources Map. Created with the help of GIS Corp, the Lactation Resources Map is now searchable by address on SCBreastfeeds.org.
- This map also includes a survey so that lactation providers can add their information about lactation consults, breastfeeding classes, support groups and more, with the hopes of improving access to lactation services in the state.
