To Breastfeed or not...

To breastfeed or not is after all an individuals choice, but unfortunately, most women today seem to disregard this practice without even knowing its merits. Also, for most, it is a part of modernization which superficially preaches independence. Of course, I may sound biased, but this has only been possible because I understand and appreciate the benefits it has for my child and me.

It all started on the second day when the pediatrician informed me about my baby being lactose intolerant. Reality dawned when I happened to read this book called ‘Start Right – Feeding Babies and Young Children by Dr Stanley A. Cohen. It informed me about the facts and myths of breastfeeding as well as formula or powder milk. Here is what I discovered:

If you want to give your baby the very best, when it comes to nutrition, the best first food for babies is breast milk. This is because, research has established that breast milk is perfectly suited to nourish infants and protect them from illness. Breast-fed infants have lower rates of ear infections, diarrhea, rashes, allergies, and other medical problems than bottle-fed babies.

A breast-fed baby's digestive tract contains large amounts of Lactobacillus bifidus, beneficial bacteria that prevent the growth of harmful organisms. Human milk straight from the breast is always sterile, never contaminated by polluted water or dirty bottles, which can also lead to diarrhea in the infant. Human milk contains at least 100 ingredients not found in formula. No babies are allergic to their mother's milk, although they may have a reaction to something the mother eats. If she eliminates it from her diet, the problem resolves itself.

You should exclusively breastfeed your child for at least six to 12 months. As that is the minimum duration required to equip your child with the antibodies it requires.
If you are a working mother, you need not worry as you can always extract milk, refrigerate it, and preserve for a later date. Did you know that extracted breast milk can last for about 12 hours when preserved in the refrigerator, and about a month, if kept in the freezer? Also, the one system that I completely rely on is the Avent ISIS. Although a little expensive compared to other brands, I found it to be the most convenient in terms of sterilization as well as ease of use.

Nursing has psychological benefits for the infant, as well as creates an early attachment between the mother and child. A nursing baby enjoys a sense of security from the warmth and presence of the mother. Parents of bottle-fed babies may be tempted to prop bottles in the baby's mouth, with no human contact during feeding. But a nursing mother must cuddle her infant closely many times during the day. Thus, nursing becomes more than a way to feed a baby; it's a source of warmth and comfort.

One very interesting site that I came across was http://www.breastfeeding.com/. I'm sure you will be able to find answers to your queries and learn from other women's experiences.