World Breastfeeding Week 1-7 of August
Exclusive breastfeeding is when a baby receives only breast milk on demand, exclusively for 6 months without any solid, fluids or water.
Facts about Breastfeeding
The first milk the baby takes produces colostrum which is highly nutritious and contains antibiotics (72 hours after childbirth).
Breast milk contains all necessary nutrients needed for the baby.
Oxytocin and prolactin is released by the brain during breastfeeding, which help mothers to bond with baby and ease those normal feelings of stress and anxiety.
Breast milk comes in the desired temperature needed by the baby.
Breastfeeding lowers your baby’s risk of common childhood illnesses like malnutrition, pneumonia, etc.
Lactational Amenoria (absence of menstruation due to breastfeeding) occurs during exclusive breastfeeding. Lactational Amenoria is a natural means of family planning as it prevents early pregnancy after delivery.
Theme
This year’s theme on world breastfeeding week (1-7 August) according to WHO is Empower Parents, Enable Breastfeeding
Benefits to the Child
Mental development and growth
It creates bonding between mother and child
Boosts immunity of the child and prevent infection
It is readily available
Benefits to the Mother
Lactation Amenoria (absence of menstruation). Lactational Amenoria which is a natural means of family planning.
It aids involution i.e. process in which the uterus returns back to its normal state and position after delivery.
It creates bonding between mother and child.
Benefits to the Family
It is inexpensive and economical.
If you need more information on breastfeeding, you can talk to a doctor at Royal Victoria Medical Centre, or have an online chat @royalvictoriamedicalcentre.com
