Breast Feeding, Essay Example

Breast feeding boasts a number of benefits for both the mother and her newborn child. Breast milk is easier to digest than traditional baby formula, plus the antibodies in a woman’s breast milk helps boost the immune system in the newborn child. Not only is breast feeding a healthier and more natural option for mothers, but it also may help women shed baby weight after their pregnancy. Still, breast-feeding can be challenging.

When breast feeding, it is key that a mother must be comfortable in her surroundings. To properly breastfeed, a woman should hold the infant close to her chest, supporting the head of the child in one hand and the breast of the child in the other. To help the baby begin to suction to the nipple, tickle the lower lip of the child and nudge the head of the child toward the breast. It may take time to get the infant to cupped to the nipple, this is normal. Mothers should listen to their newborn child and take cues from the baby as to when he or she is hungry and needs to be fed. Using breast pumps can help relieve pressure associated with breast feeding.

Advantages of teaching breast feeding to mothers is the ability to gain a close relationship with patients and help them through one of the most significant moments of their lives. Disadvantages of teaching breast feeding include the complexities of actually helping a mother learn to breastfeed properly, especially new mothers. Breast feeding can be difficult for many mothers, and when a mother struggles to breastfeed, they may feel like a failure as a mother. This can be an overwhelming barrier to overcome, but it is crucial to reassure the mothers that breast feeding is a process and with practice, their baby will be breast feeding in no time.