The World Health Organisation (WHO) states:
WHO strongly recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months after birth. In the sixth month, other foods should be introduced. Breastfeeding can be continued for 2 years or even longer. In addition:
- Breastfeeding should start within the first hour after birth.
- The baby should be breastfed when hungry during the day and at night.
- Bottle or pacifier should not be preferred.
- Benefits of breastfeeding for the baby
Breast milk is an ideal food for newborns and older babies. It provides babies with the nutrients they need for healthy development. It is safe and contains substances (antibodies) that protect babies from common childhood diseases such as diarrhea and pneumonia. Diarrhea and pneumonia are the most common causes of death in children all over the world. Breast milk is also an easy and inexpensive method of feeding and helps the baby grow healthily.
- Benefits of breastfeeding for the mother
Breastfeeding is also beneficial for the mother. It can also be considered a natural birth control method, as it mostly prevents menstruation. However, it should be noted that it is not 100% effective. It reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancer that may occur in later ages, accelerates the mother's return to her prenatal weight and reduces the frequency of obesity.
- Long-term benefits of breastfeeding for children
Breast milk contributes to a child's lifelong health. The incidence of high blood pressure and cholesterol, obesity and type 2 diabetes decreases in adults who are breastfed by their mothers as infants. It has also been shown that they score higher in intelligence tests.
- Why is infant formula not preferred?
Infant formula does not contain the protective substances (antibodies) found in breast milk, and if clean water is not used to prepare the formula, the risk of contracting water-borne diseases increases. If too much water is added to the formula to make it last longer, the baby may become malnourished (malnutrition). In addition, frequent breastfeeding increases breast milk, so if you want to switch from formula to breast milk again, it will not be possible to breastfeed again because milk production will decrease.
- Supporting the mother is very important
Breastfeeding is a process that needs to be learned and many women have difficulties when starting to breastfeed. Pain in the nipple and worries about not having enough milk to feed the baby are common. Midwives, nurses and doctors can help and teach you how to breastfeed your baby.
- How can a working mother breastfeed her baby?
WHO states that mothers should not work, rest and breastfeed their babies for at least 16 weeks after childbirth. Mothers who return to work are often unable to complete the 6-month breastfeeding period due to lack of time, lack of a place to breastfeed or lack of a cupboard in the workplace where they can store their milk. Mothers should have a safe, clean and dedicated place at the workplace.
- Next step: It's time to switch to new foods
To meet the needs of a 6-month-old baby, complementary foods should be started while continuing breastfeeding. The baby's food can be prepared from what the family eats. WHO gives the following warnings on this subject:
- Breast milk should not be reduced when complementary foods are introduced;
- Complementary foods should be given with a spoon or baby glass, not a bottle;
- Foods should be clean, safe and localised;
- It should be remembered that it takes a long time for young children to get used to solid foods.