Breastfeeding has many benefits for both mother and baby. Breast milk provides babies with the perfect balance of nutrients needed for growth and development. Breastfeeding also helps babies and mothers bond. At Peekaboo Pediatrics in Houston, TX, breastfeeding assistance is available. Dr. Heena Thakkar and Dr. Shilpa Pankaj can answer questions about nursing and provide helpful tips for breastfeeding success.

Breastfeeding Challenges

Breastfeeding, also called nursing, offers numerous benefits but does not always go smoothly. Some mothers and babies experience challenges with the nursing process. For example, breastfeeding can be challenging for babies that have a difficult time latching onto the breast. Babies that are unable to latch on correctly might not get enough milk.

Another challenge with breastfeeding for some women is not being able to produce enough milk to keep up with the baby’s needs. Additionally, nursing sometimes can be physically uncomfortable for moms, particularly when the baby is unable to properly latch onto the breast. Mothers can also experience discomfort if the breasts become engorged with milk. The skilled providers at our pediatric office in Houston, TX, can help with breastfeeding challenges.

Benefits of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding newborns for at least the first six months of life has numerous benefits for both baby and mother. Some of the many wonderful benefits of breastfeeding include:

• Promotes bonding between mother and child
• Babies can easily digest breastmilk
• Provides the perfect balance of nutrients
• Provides important antibodies for preventing infections and diseases
• Potentially helps prevent diabetes and cancer in mothers and babies
• Triggers the mother’s body to burn calories and shrink the uterus, both of which aid in weight loss

Breastfeeding is a natural experience that has many benefits for mothers and their babies, but it isn’t always easy. That’s where our experienced pediatric doctors and staff come in. We can help with any breastfeeding challenges you face. For help with breastfeeding in Houston, TX, Schedule an appointment with Dr. Thakkar or Dr. Pankaj by calling Peekaboo Pediatrics at (713) 861-4800.