5 Importance of Breastfeeding for Baby and Mother

Breastfeeding is a beautiful connection and feeling; it's an act of care and comfort that nourishes both mother and child. Breastfeeding is not just limited to nutritional value but it has emotional, physical and long-term benefits as well.

It is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) to initiate breastfeeding within the first hour after birth and continuing exclusively for the first six months.After six months you can start solids and breastfeed alongside side upto two years of age or more, depending upon child's needs. In this blog, we will discuss everything about the importance of breastfeeding, emotional connection between mother and child and health benefits for mothers.

1. Breast Milk — Nature’s Perfect Nutrition

Breast milk is also known as liquid gold, and there's a reason for it, as breast milk is uniquely designed for a baby’s growth and development. It has the right balance of nutrients, vitamins, and antibodies that a child needs in the initial years. Each drop of breast milk is overfilled with nutrients and immune-supporting substances that protect babies from infections and diseases.

After giving birth, women produce early milk called colostrum, a thick golden liquid which helps to build a newborn's immune system. It also supports gut health, and provides essential antibodies that fight with harmful bacteria.It has been noticed that babies who are breastfed have fewer ear infections, digestive problems and respiratory issues. There is a reduced risk of allergies, obesity and chronic diseases too.

2. The Emotional Connection Between Mother and Baby

Apart from nutrition , there’s also an unmatched emotional bond that develops between mother and child which heals the mother in so many ways. During breastfeeding there is release of hormone called oxytocin ‘ the love hormone’ that helps strengthen the connection. This hormone also promotes feelings of relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety for the mother.

For babies, it's not just the milk,it's the feeling of comfort and warmth. The gentle touch, the rhythmic heartbeat make the baby feel safe and loved. This emotional closeness helps in developing trust and attachment, both of which are crucial for the baby’s emotional growth.

3. Health Benefits for Mothers

It's  not just the baby who is getting benefits from breastfeeding but it's the mother too. Breastfeeding helps the uterus contract and return to its normal size more quickly after childbirth, reducing postpartum bleeding. You also burn extra calories when you breastfeed resulting in returning to their pre pregnancy weight naturally.

Breastfeeding also lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. According to research, it shows that it also reduces the risk of osteoporosis and heart disease.

4. The 3-Step Method of Breastfeeding

The 3-step method of breastfeeding makes the process smoother, especially for new mothers. The method involves three easy and simple steps that are as follows:

Step 1: Preparation

Begin with washing your hands and ensure the surroundings are calm and cosy. Choose a comfy spot and have a bottle of water nearby as breastfeeding makes you thirsty.

Step 2: Positioning

If your baby is latching properly, everything will go smoothly. Hold your baby close with their nose level to your nipple. Support your breast with your hand and gently guide your baby to latch onto the areola, not just the nipple. This ensures a deeper latch and prevents discomfort.

Step 3: Patience

Babies feed at their own pace so each session can take 10 to 30 minutes, if the baby pauses, burp them and switch sides.

5. Supporting Modern Moms: Pumping and Breastfeeding on the Go

Moms on the go, or moms who work or travel alot face alot of challenges in their breastfeeding journey. Breast pumps become really handy in breastfeeding. Moms can just express milk and store it for later use. With this moms become stress free that their baby gets the benefits of breast milk even then they are part. It really makes breastfeeding in travelling much easier.

However, finding the right pump is a struggle for a lot of new moms. Ornavo Breast pumps are the right choice as they provide the best support and convenience for moms who are looking for a comfortable pumping solution. Designed for efficiency and ease of use, these pumps allow mothers to maintain milk supply, reduce discomfort, and keep up with their feeding routine no matter where they are.

Whether you’re at work, on a trip, or simply need a break, using a reliable pump ensures your baby continues to receive all the benefits of breast milk.

Bonus: Tips for Successful Breastfeeding

Here are a few additional tips that make breastfeeding smoother and more enjoyable:

Stay hydrated: Keep your fluid quantity high and drink as much as water to maintain milk supply.

Eat well: During breastfeeding, your body is burning a lot of calories and you are losing a lot of nutrients too, a right balanced diet will support your body’s nutritional needs.

Rest when possible: Adequate rest promotes better milk flow and overall well-being.

Seek help:  Take help when you need, talk to your lactation expert and consult if you are facing any issues or discomfort.

Use a breast pump when needed: Pumping helps manage oversupply, store milk, and maintain production during travel or work breaks.

Conclusion

The importance of breastfeeding goes far beyond feeding, it's a mix of nourishment, love , care, and growth. For babies, it is receiving a boost of nutrition and protection that helps them stay fit. For mothers, there's emotional bonding and lifelong health benefits involved.

Whether you are a stay-at-home mom or a working mom, the right tools like Ornavo breast pumps make life smoother and easier.