Are you considering breastfeeding? Have you thought about it, but was still unsure? Know that breastfeeding can be as beneficial to you as it can be to your child.
Did You Know?. . .
Note: Not everyone wants to breastfeed. Not everyone is capable of breastfeeding for various reasons, but if you are able to you may find that this is one of the most rewarding experience in your life. Also, this is a win/win situation, because there are benefits for both you and your baby. God has built our bodies for this wonderful experience. Psalm 139:14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Natural Bond and Healthy Start
1. Antibodies and the Immune System
I did not breast feed my first child because I did not have enough support. When it came to my 2nd and 3rd child my husband and father gave me full support. For some reason most of the women in my family were against it. They claimed it was old- fashion. They made it appear shameful to me. Now that I did it successfully I am so glad that I did. Also, my daughter had children of her own and successfully breast fed. I was happy about that. I took the La Leche classes. They helped me a lot considering I knew nothing about breastfeeding. I discovered that breastfeeding was helpful in protecting my babies immune system and that the first few days of breast feeding gave my babies antibodies to protect them.
2. Colostrum
I learned that the first few days of breastfeeding is crucial because that first milk that comes in called colostrum is packed with nutrients and immune-boosting factors that were good for me and for my babies.
With one of my babies the milk came in so fast that night I was very uncomfortable because I was so full. I told the nurse and she said if they had known they would have bought my baby to me to nurse. So I was given the option to have my baby in the room right beside me and told to nurse as often as needed. I was elated about that.
3. Babies Bowel Movements
I also learned that my babies bowel movements seem to have a laxative effect. Usually they would have a movement after I nursed. I also noticed that the bowel movement odor was not nearly as strong as the odor from my baby that I did not nurse. That was my first baby.
4. Eating Order
I also learned that the order that I ate my food was the order that my baby would receive it in the milk. I thought that was very interesting.
5. Learning the Hard Way
I learned that certain foods were considered a “no-no” to eat because it would affect my baby. Your milk is already like a mild laxative to your child. Chocolate was a “no-no.” I loved chocolate candy and one day forgot. I ate a Hershey Candy Bar. This was a memorable experience I will never forget. As I nursed my baby her bowel movement started coming out of her diaper. It was so much. I will never forget. I thought to myself, “I ate the chocolate Hershey Candy bar. “ I did a lot of cleaning that day because poop was all over my lap. Other foods that can cause baby to be gassy are caffeine, onions, broccoli, beans, cabbage, and cauliflower. That is understandable because to this day broccoli and cauliflower give me gas so I have to avoid them anyway.
6. Digestive System
When I breastfed my babies there were no digestive problems. This makes since because breastfeeding is natural or at least it should be. My first baby which was not breastfeed had constipation problems.
7. Bonding
When nursing your babies there is a bond there that is indescribable. There is a closeness to see your baby looking up into your eyes.
8. Weight
I gained a lot of weight during my pregnancies and my last baby weighed 8 pounds. The doctor was not too concerned because he said I was so little before the pregnancies. After each baby I lost the weight. I know some mothers have not been so lucky, but I do attribute mine to breastfeeding. I learned that breastfeeding shrinks the uterus which is also a big help. The March of Dimes.com talks more about this. I do not recall having any cramps as my uterus shrunk. It did indeed shrink and I returned to my normal weight.
A Few Tips:
A. Water
I remember being encouraged to drink plenty of water, especially before nursing my babies. It is also important to empty one breast before preceding to the other breast.
B. Bonding
This is a great time to bond with your baby when nursing. Talk to your baby. Your baby knows your voice. Your voice is unique to your baby like no other. Father’s are great, but do not have this type of bond. This type of bond with your baby is like no other.
C. Often
Did you know that the more often you breastfeed the more milk you will produce? Yes, isn't it wonderful how unique that God has made out bodies?
D. What About a Breast Pump?
Although I never used one, you may want to consider one if you want to return to work and continue breastfeeding. A breast pump will allow you to store your milk safely in bottles. I recall a coworker of mine did just that. She would store her breast milk in our refrigerator at work and label it. This arrangement seemed to work out perfectly for her. It allowed her to work and allowed her baby to still receive her breast milk.
Source:
Your body after baby: The first 6 weeks
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