Breastfeeding or nursing involves feeding a baby directly from the mother’s breast. It is a natural process that has many benefits for mother and child. However, breastfeeding can be challenging at times. Dr. Heena Thakkar and Dr. Shilpa Pankaj, the experienced board-certified doctors at Peekaboo Pediatrics in Houston, TX, offer breastfeeding assistance and can provide tips for overcoming different nursing challenges.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
The benefits of breastfeeding for both babies and moms are numerous. Not only does nursing help mothers and babies bond, it also offers several health and nutrition benefits. The skilled and knowledgeable providers at our pediatric practice in Houston, TX, offer breastfeeding guidance to help you and your little one enjoy a better breastfeeding experience.
Some of the major benefits and advantages of breastfeeding are:
- Breast milk is easily digested by babies
- Breast milk provides an optimal balance of nutrients
- Gives babies essential antibodies for preventing infections and diseases
- Helps reduce the risk of ear infections, asthma, type 1 diabetes, and obesity in babies and children
- Helps reduce the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain cancers in nursing moms
- Aids in postpartum weight loss by burning calories and shrinking the uterus
- Promotes bonding and a deep connection between mother and baby
Breastfeeding Tips
Despite its numerous benefits, breastfeeding does not always come easily and can be challenging for many mothers and babies. Infants can experience difficulty properly latching onto the breast, which can affect their ability to obtain enough milk while feeding. One problem nursing moms can face is not being able to produce enough milk. Another challenge some women experience is engorged breasts, which can cause pain and discomfort.
A doctor or lactation coach can mothers and babies overcome various nursing challenges enjoy a more positive breastfeeding experience. Some breastfeeding tips include:
- Begin breastfeeding immediately after birth
- Nurse exclusively for the first six months, if possible
- Breastfeed baby equally from both breasts
- Try different positions during breastfeeding to find what works for you and your baby
- Try different methods for helping your baby latch onto the breast
- Prevent engorged breasts by nursing whenever baby is hungry, as well as nursing from both breasts
- Maintain a healthy and balanced diet while breastfeeding
- Seek help from a doctor or lactation coach
- Attend breastfeeding classes
Breastfeeding is a natural process with numerous benefits for both mother and baby. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Thakkar or Dr. Pankaj to learn more about breastfeeding by calling Peekaboo Pediatrics in Houston, TX, at (713) 861-4800.