Breastfeeding is the best source of nutrition for babies, newborn to 24 months of age. The WHO, CDC, and American Academy of Pediatrics suggest that infants should be breastfed exclusively for at least the first six months of life as breast milk offers not only a good source of nutrition for the baby but also provides immunity support for the baby. Mothers initially release colostrum, which is thick in consistency compared to “normal supply.” Colostrum provides babies with nutritional support in their first few days of life and helps kick-start the baby’s digestive system.
Breast milk is known to offer many benefits for both mom and baby. Mothers who choose to breastfeed have a reduced risk of developing breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and high blood pressure. Breastfeeding also promotes skin-to-skin contact which releases oxytocin, often known as the “bonding hormone.”
Oxytocin can have a calming effect on mom and baby. Benefits for babies include reduced risks of common childhood infections, asthma, eczema, and childhood obesity. It is rich in vitamins and minerals needed for a baby’s growth. It is important to note that vitamin D supplementation is needed during breastfeeding.
Vitamin D ensures proper absorption of the nutrients provided by breast milk; however, breast milk alone does not contain the daily recommended value of vitamin D.
Within the first few months of life, our baby may need to breastfeed every 1-3 hours. This time frame will move to every 2-4 hours as your milk supply comes in and the baby grows. Breastfed babies will sometimes enter periods where they need to feed more often. This is typically when they are about to hit a growth spurt or learn a new developmental milestone. This increased need to feed is often called “cluster feeding” and is normal.
Feeding sessions will often vary in length of time, but the important thing is making sure the baby is fed 8-12 times per day. At 6 months of age, your baby will start eating more solid food. It is important to continue breastfeeding your baby as this is the most important source of nutrition for your baby. If you find your baby becoming disinterested in breastfeeding, try to offer breast milk to your baby before a feeding of solid food.
Although breast milk is healthy for babies and offers many benefits, it is important to understand that a fed baby is the goal. Some women may not be able to produce enough breast milk to adequately supply their infant every feeding. Some moms may dry up sooner than they would expect. It is important to discuss with your doctor if you have concerns with your supply.
Additionally, it is important to discuss with your child’s pediatrician the possibility of supplementing feeds with formula. Your doctor can point you toward the help and resources you will need to make feeding possible.
In conclusion, breastfeeding offers many wonderful benefits to both mom and baby. It offers the baby immune support and all the nutrients the baby needs to learn and grow. There may be factors that limit a mother’s supply, but she needs to speak with her healthcare provider about her concerns.
Your ability to breastfeed your baby does not define you as a mother. A fed baby is the goal. However, there are many resources and support programs to help mothers with breastfeeding goals. Reach out to your provider to learn more.
Dr. Burns is a resident physician who sees patients of all ages and provides obstetrical services at Lone Star Family Health Center, a non-profit 501©3 Federally Qualified Health Center operating facilities in Conroe, Spring, Willis, Grangerland, and Huntsville, and serving as home to a fully integrated Family Medicine Residency Program to increase the number of Family Medicine physicians for Texas and our community.