“Mothers and babies form an inseparable biological and social unit, the health and nutrition of one group cannot be divorced from health and nutrition of another group.” -WHO
WHO recommends that mothers should begin breastfeeding within the first hour of delivery and exclusively breastfeed the baby for six months. Breastfeeding helps the mother and child bond as it increases skin-to-skin contact. When a mother holds and strokes her baby with affection, especially during the first year after childbirth, it reduces the chances of behavioural and social problems in both children and adults.
The advantages of breastfeeding are multifaceted. Some of them are:
Post-partum recovery: Breastfeeding triggers the release of oxytocin, which helps the uterus contract and returns to its pre-pregnancy size, aiding in postpartum recovery. The release of oxytocin can also help prevent excessive bleeding after childbirth.
Postpartum weight loss: Breastfeeding burns extra calories, which can aid in postpartum weight loss.
Hormone boost: When a mother breastfeeds, her body makes the hormones- prolactin and oxytocin. Oxytocin produces a peaceful, nurturing feeling that allows her to relax and focus on her child. It also promotes a strong sense of love and attachment between mother and baby.
Reduced carcinoma risk: Women who breastfeed have a reduced risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer later in life.
Reduces inflammation: Inflammation is part of the stress response, and when inflammation levels are high, people are more likely to experience depression. Breastfeeding can reduce inflammation in the mother’s body which can also help to lower heart disease and diabetes-related risks.
Sleep: One of the biggest, and maybe most surprising, psychological benefits of breastfeeding is better sleep. In fact, mothers who only breastfeed may find that they fall asleep easier, stay asleep longer, and sleep more soundly.
Increased calmness: Breastfeeding can also support a baby’s physical and emotional wellness. Babies who are generally breastfed have been shown to cry lesser and show fewer symptoms of childhood illnesses.
Stress buster: Breastfeeding triggers the release of oxytocin, which can promote feelings of relaxation and reduce stress levels in both mother and baby.
Boosts confidence: Successful breastfeeding can boost a mother’s confidence and sense of accomplishment in caring for her child.
In conclusion, breastfeeding offers a myriad of physical and psychological benefits for mothers, strengthening the bond between mother and child while promoting overall well-being. From aiding in postpartum recovery through the release of oxytocin to reducing the risk of certain cancers and promoting better sleep, breastfeeding contributes to a mother’s health in multiple ways. Moreover, the emotional benefits are profound, fostering a sense of love and attachment, and increased calmness for both mother and baby. Beyond the immediate effects, breastfeeding can have long-term implications, instilling confidence and a sense of accomplishment in maternal caregiving. Embracing breastfeeding not only reflects the essence of abundance and nourishment but also underscores the interconnectedness of the well-being of both mother and child, forming an inseparable biological and social unit as beautifully articulated by Sarah Buckley when she said, “Breastfeeding reminds us the universal truth of abundance; the more we give out, the more we are filled up, and the divine nourishment-the source from which we all draw is, like a mother’s breast, ever full and ever flowing”.
(The author, Dr. Pratima Mittal, is the Head of the Department of Gynecology and Oncology, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad)
