Breastfeeding brings many unexpected benefits

Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for babies and babies. Therefore, breastfeeding mothers will bring many benefits that you may not expect.

In addition to containing all the vitamins and nutrients that your baby needs in the first six months of life, breastmilk also contains a full range of antioxidants to help your baby fight a lot of diseases. That is one of the reasons that mothers should breastfeed their babies exclusively for the first 6 months.

Breastfeeding protects your baby from disease and promotes health

Many studies show that stomach viruses, lower respiratory diseases , ear infections and meningitis are less common in breastfed infants and that if they do, the disease is less serious. Exclusive breastfeeding (meaning no solid foods, other formula or water) for at least six months is the best way to prevent illness.

A large study by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences found that breastfed babies had a 20% lower risk of death over a 28 to 1 year period compared to babies who were not breastfed. Babies who breastfeed longer have an even lower risk of death.

Globulin (IgA) is a secreted immune substance found in colostrum, the first milk a mother's body produces to her baby. It is found in lower concentrations in breast milk in adulthood. Besides, globulin also protects against invading pathogens by forming a protective layer on the mucous membranes in the gut, nose and throat of the baby.

Breast milk is especially suitable for the young and weak body of a baby. The mother's body reacts with pathogens causing IgA to secrete against those pathogens. This has created protection for the baby.

The protection and fighting against diseases of your baby with breast milk extend beyond your breastfeeding period. Studies show that breastfeeding can reduce the risk of developing certain cancers in children. Scientists do not know exactly how breastmilk reduces that risk, but they think that antibodies in breast milk may help boost a baby's immune system.

Breastfeeding can also help your baby avoid a range of illnesses they may develop later, such as type 1 and 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and inflammatory bowel disease. In fact, breastfed babies are less likely to develop high blood pressure by the time they reach adolescence.

Researchers have noted an association between the lack of breast milk and the development of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Tips for proper breastfeeding

When you hold your baby in the delivery room is a great time to start breastfeeding. Initially, your body will produce a special amount of milk called colostrum which protects your baby from infection. Because the baby's tummy is very small, the baby only needs a little milk. As your baby gets older, your milk will change and produce more milk.

You can embrace the baby's whole body and let him lie down towards the chest. Let baby's upper lip touch the nipple and when he opens his mouth, hold him close to his chest and support his chest with his hands. The baby's mouth not only latches on the nipples but also latches on as much of the areola (the dark color around the nipple) as possible.

Don't worry if your baby is having trouble finding or latching, as breastfeeding requires a lot of patience. Don't hesitate to ask your midwife or doctor how to effectively breastfeed your baby. If your baby is born premature, you can not breastfeed immediately, but should express milk reserves. Your baby will receive this milk through a tube or bottle until it is strong enough to be fed directly.

When starting out, your baby's mouth should have a large portion of the areola under the nipple and don't push the nipple too deep into the baby's mouth. If breastfeeding is painful, pause by placing a small finger between the baby's gums and the breast, then try again. When your baby is feeding properly and doesn't hurt you, you can refer to the 4 most comfortable breastfeeding positions.

Important things to keep in mind while breastfeeding

Creating a habit of breastfeeding doesn't mean you have to set a rigid schedule and force your baby to get 120ml at a time. It is more important that mothers pay attention to the baby's cues and know what the baby needs. If your baby uses a bottle , he will cry when he runs out of milk and feels he is still not full. Conversely, if the baby is full after 10 minutes, the baby will no longer suckle and go to sleep easily.

1. The frequency of breastfeeding

Breastfeeding should be at least every 2-3 hours when the baby feels hungry to ensure the baby is full 8-12 times a day. During the first month, your baby should feed both day and night. In fact, getting a good night's sleep is quite a hassle, as it may not be getting the milk it needs.

Usually, you should breastfeed for about 15-20 minutes because during this time, your baby will often feel sleepy and  easier to fall asleep . If your baby still feels hungry after you have fed a sufficient amount or wakes up while changing diapers, offer another feed. Babies who suckle too long can be a sign of not wanting to suck or not absorbing enough milk.

2. Make sure your baby breastfeeds enough milk for good growth

Rapid growth can occur at different times for each child. At the beginning of week 2 and between weeks 3 and 6, your baby may experience rapid growth spikes and become more hungry than usual.

While you are not noticing any outward growth, your baby's body still has noticeable changes and needs more energy during this time. Therefore, breastfeed more (if you are breastfeeding) and regular breastfeeding will stimulate the mother's milk glands to secrete more.

If your baby is bottle-feeding, mothers should breastfeed more with each feed. If your baby has nutritional problems, he or she will begin to lose weight or be unable to achieve the necessary weight.

3. Make sure the mother's breasts release breast milk

Your breasts will fill with milk 2 - 5 days after giving birth. After this time, you should notice that your breasts should be tight and firm before feeding and soften after feeding your baby. While your baby is sucking on one breast, you may notice a little milk dripping or leaking from the other breast.

If you feel your breasts are no longer engorged after 5 days or you don't notice any milk leaking from your breasts when your baby starts to suckle, you may not have an adequate supply of milk for your baby or breastfeeding hasn't stimulated. Milk glands secrete more.

This may also be a sign of medical problems that are not related to the baby's nutrition, so the mother should immediately consult the doctor for advice. Every newborn baby must be periodically checked within 3 - 5 days after birth and 48 - 72 hours after discharge to find abnormal problems promptly.