Baby Q&A

Q: I’ve been breastfeeding my baby for a few months now, and I’m astounded at the stupid comments I get. It seems that many people, especially the older generation, are unaware of all the benefits. It is very discouraging. I know that what I am doing is the absolute best for my baby, right? Please arm me with some hard facts I can use when I get the raised eyebrow again for sticking to my plan to breastfeed. I’m okay to let the older folks just move right on, but I definitely want future mothers to know how amazing breastfeeding really is.

A: Laura answers: Breastfeeding has been shown to have major health benefits for both the mother and child. The benefits of breastfeeding include protecting babies from some of the biggest killer diseases of infants and children in South Africa: diarrhoea and pneumonia. It is also associated with improved development and educational achievement. However, babies are not the only beneficiaries. Breastfeeding after birth helps the uterus contract and reduces the mother’s postpartum blood loss, and reduces the risk of ovarian and breast cancer and type II diabetes.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), if breastfeeding were scaled up to near universal levels, about 820 000 child lives would be saved every year. Globally, only 40% of infants under six months of age are exclusively breastfed. In South Africa a third of children under six months old are now exclusively breastfed. This represents a nearly five-fold increase over the last twenty years. Well done to us!

While breastfeeding is a natural act, it is also a learned behaviour, therefore ensuring that expectant mothers are prepared is key. Research has demonstrated that mothers and other caregivers require active support for establishing and sustaining appropriate breastfeeding practices.

There are two essential ways to prepare for breastfeeding ahead of the birth. Expectant mothers should start by attending a breastfeeding class conducted by a certified lactation expert. They also need a breastfeeding plan. For a successful breastfeeding journey every new mom needs a plan which should include what to do in the first hours following birth, and who they can contact for support. The plan should also consider what steps to take for any special needs, such as how to ensure baby receives breastmilk in the event that the mom and baby may not be able to breastfeed.

Also be aware of the fact that even if a baby doesn’t latch or needs to go to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), you can still express breastmilk to feed your baby. YB