For several decades, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby has been promoted by health agencies and health organizations worldwide. Sadly, the proportion of Filipino mothers doing such has always been low in spite of the several advantages of breastfeeding.
Exclusive breastfeeding is giving or feeding the baby with breastmilk only. With the exception of medications, vitamins and/or mineral supplements which may be given as may be needed/prescribed, no other milk nor liquids including water or “am” should not be given. Early start of breastfeeding is crucial to successful lactation. At least within 30 minutes after a normal delivery or within 3-4 hours or as soon as the effects of anesthesia dissipate after a cesarean delivery, a mother can already breastfeed her newborn.
Breastmilk is a complete food for the baby during the first six months of life hence no need for other food. It is best for the baby being nutritionally superior. Feeding other food at this time will reduce the chance to be fed breast milk. The infant gets full with a much less nutritious food. Also, there is risk of introducing microorganisms to the not-so-developed hence functionally immature gastrointestinal tract of the infant. The enzymes that are need in digestion, particularly salivary and pancreatic, are also low during the first months of life.
Breastmilk confers immunity to the child and does not cause allergic reactions. It is better digested compared to cow’s milk with its greater whey protein content in contrast to cow’s milk which has more casein. There is also less tendency for constipation. Breastfeeding promotes mother-child bonding, offers a convenient and more economical way of feeding and confers maternal benefits too. It hastens Among some women, the hormonal effects of breastfeeding delays the resumption of menstruation indicating delayed ovulation and lesser chance for another pregnancy. Remember the lactation amenorrhea method of contraception?
One reason for the delayed breastfeeding or even frustration among some mothers is the lack or insufficiency of breastmilk. Pregnant women can prevent this by ensuring proper nutrition and hydration during pregnancy especially the latter months. The pregnant woman’s diet should be able to meet the recommended energy and dietary allowances. If there is no or little milk yet upon delivery, still the mother should not give up as one principle in breastfeeding is that the more often the baby sucks, the greater milk will be produced.