How will you feed your baby? Most pregnant women have thought this question by 28-32 weeks. If you’ve decided breastfeeding is for you or you still have questions, make plans to discuss options with your OB/GYN. In the meantime, here are some top things your gynecologist wants you to know about breastfeeding.
What you Need to Know About Breastfeeding Benefits
Breastfed babies have stronger immune systems, fewer respiratory problems, asthma, and allergies, and fewer ear infections than babies who are not breastfed.
For moms, breastfeeding releases the hormone oxytocin, which helps shrink the uterus to pre-pregnancy size. It burns extra calories, so it can help moms lose pregnancy weight faster. Breastfeeding also lowers the risk of some cancers and decreases the risk of stroke and heart attack up to ten years after giving birth.
Successful Breastfeeding
A mother’s desire to breastfeed is one of the strongest predictors of successful breastfeeding. Many women question their intention to breastfeed within the first few weeks postpartum. Why? The most common reason for stopping is not enough breast milk.
Lack of breast milk can be a perception by the mother rather than a fact. A mother’s opinion about an insufficient milk supply is connected to her self-confidence in meeting her infant’s needs.
Many hospitals have lactation specialists on staff to help new mothers get started and breastfeeding support groups are good community resources when you return home.
How Can I Improve My Breastfeeding Self-Confidence?
Don’t underestimate the importance of a support system. A strong support system for first-time mothers is essential for breastfeeding success. As a mother gains confidence in her problem-solving ability, she is more likely to master breastfeeding skills. Her belief that her infant will respond to her efforts, plus the support of others, increases her ability to breastfeed.
The medical term for this phenomenon is breastfeeding self-efficacy (BSE). Having a high BSE not only helps successful breastfeeding but can also help women emotionally adjust after delivery.
BSE and Postpartum Depression
A recent study evaluated BSE and mood in first-time breastfeeding mothers at two days, six weeks, and six months postpartum.
High BSE at two days postpartum predicted positive emotional adjustment and depressive symptoms at six weeks postpartum. Exclusively breastfeeding six months after delivery was more common among women who exhibited high BSE.
Common Complications to Know About Breastfeeding
The most common issues while breastfeeding are engorgement and mastitis. Engorgement occurs when the breast produces milk that is not released, sometimes directly after birth or after skipping a breastfeeding session and not pumping. Some common treatments include warm compresses to help with milk flow and rest and cold compresses to relieve pain and reduce swelling.
Mastitis is an infection of the breasts, which can present itself as a red spot that is swollen and warm to the touch. Mastitis can typically be treated with antibiotics, and women can continue to nurse while they have mastitis.
However you choose to feed your baby, all of us at Creekside Center for Women are here to support you and assist you before and after delivery. If you have questions about breastfeeding or are experiencing any complications, please contact your OB/GYN. If you have questions or concerns about breastfeeding, let us know how we can help. 479.582.9268