|
|
| Interventions |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Empowerment |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Implications |
|
| Not Just Skin |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NotJustSkin
3918 Madison St.
Hyattsville, MD 20781
(301) 779-8388
|
We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. |
 |
 |
Breastfeeding is a feeding method that fosters bonding between mother and infant. Breastfeeding has many benefits to the newborn that continue even into adulthood.
Benefits of breastfeeding for Mom and Baby
- Helps decrease the incidence of common childhood diseases and infections, such as ear infections and respiratory syncytial virus(RSV)
- May enhance mental development
- Fewer developments of allergies
- Enhances jaw development
- Decreases risk of postpartum hemorrhage
- Decreases risk of breast cancer
- Promotes mother's return to pre-pregnancy weight
- Delays fertility
- Saves money
- Promotes bonding between Mom and Baby
- Reinforces Mother's caregiving role
- Naturally induces contraction of the uterus that returns it to pre-pregnancy size
- Reduces risk of hemorrhage
Cons to formula
- Expensive
- Lack of antibodies can lead to illnesses/infections
- Time consuming, e.g., preparation and sterilization of bottles
- Is inferior nutrition
- Increased risk for Baby of many health problems later in life including obesity and diabetes
- Greater risk of contamination
Breastfeeding basics
Positioning is important because it encourages an accurate latch-on, and ensures comfort for both mother and baby. Skin to skin contact also facilitates proper feeding. Positions include football or clutch hold, cradle, across-the-lap, and side-lying.
To promote a proper latch-on, brush the infant's cheek to encourage a wide-open mouth. The infant's mouth should cover the majority of the areola of the breast.
Initial feeding may be quite often; mothers should become aware of their infants pattern.
Breastfeeding requires patience, persistence, and support.
Resources
- Lactation Consultants are certified specialists, usually nurses, who promote its benefits, provide breastfeeding education, conduct support groups, provide one-to-one visits, and encourage and support the mother through problems such as engorgement and latch-on issues.
- La Leche League an international organization with an aim to promote breastfeeding and provide education. With 3000 local groups, La Leche League provides support, education, and shares their experiences.
- breastfeeding.com facts, books, pumps, and clothing
Sources: Lowdermilk & Perry (2004), www.breastfeeding.com, www.lalecheleague.org
NotJustSkin is an educational charity that is not associated with the government or any private corporation. Our mission is to support the physical health, emotional wellness, and quality of relationships of children, parents, and others.
People are not just skin.
This page was last modified on 1/12/2008.