Breastfeeding

The breasts increase greatly in size during pregnancy as they prepare for the important function of feeding the baby after childbirth.

The ducts and glands proliferate in size, the blood supply increases, more fat gets deposited and the breast acini, which were small threadlike cells earlier, develop into larger cells, fully capable of producing milk from the mother's blood. So, they are also called Accessory Organs of Reproduction.

In the later weeks of pregnancy, the breasts begin to secrete a thin yellowish fluid called the colostrum. Colostrum is also secreted during the first 3 – 4 days after delivery. It is ideal as the baby's first food since it contains al the various food ingredients in the right proportion for easy digestion.

From the 3rd – 4th day of the postpartum period, there is actual milk formation and secretion. The breasts may become engorged, tense and tender during this period. But once regular suckling is established, the engorgement passes off.

Positions for Breastfeeding

The baby may be breastfed in different positions as shown in the images. The mother should choose whichever position she finds most comfortable.

Importance of Breastfeeding

Best Nutrition: Breastmilk is nutritionally the most suitable for the newborn baby. The colostrum contains large amounts of antibodies that protect the baby against infections. The proteins, fats and carbohydrates in the milk can be easily digested by the baby. The mother's milk also contains additional substances like iron and Vitamin A which can be effectively absorbed.
Protection against Allergy: In families with a history of allergic conditions like Bronchial asthma, the breastfed baby gets antibodies from the mother that can provide protection against the causative allergens.
Psychological Benefits: Studies have shown that a breastfed baby grows up into a secure and emotionally stable adult.
Development of Intelligence: Studies have shown that a breastfed baby can have a higher IQ - upto an eight-point difference - than a bottlefed baby. Fatty acids critical for neurological development are present in a better digestible form in breastmilk than in artificial mlk.
Protection for the Mother: Breatfeeding protects the mother against breast cancer and uterine cancer later in life.
Weight loss: A mother who breastfeeds her baby can lose weight faster and more efficiently than a mother who uses the bottle to feed her baby.
Economical: Breastfeeding is economical in the long run as it cuts down on illnesses suffered by both the baby and the mother.

Production of milk continues to a more or less degree as long as suckling continues. It starts to decrease when breastfeeding stops and may stop completely in 4 - 6 months after stopping breastfeeding. But the breast will start producing milk again if suckling occurs again at any time of the woman's life.

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BREAST-FEEDING

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