Most health experts agree that breastfeeding is the best method of supplying a newborn's nourishment for the mother and new baby alike. The feeding can only be done by the mother and can establish a bond with the baby right from the start. However, some babies have problems suckling, so the next best alternative is breast milk that is hand pumped and put into bottles. The advantage to this method is that that father can participate in the feeding process.
When first deciding as to whether breastfeed or not, a new mother should be aware that babies that are breastfed have lower infection rates, such as ear and stomach infections. These children also have less digestive problems such as diarrhea, fewer allergies, and a lower rate of skin disease.
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Her post-partum bleeding is less and seems to end sooner. It may be easier for the mother to lose her postpartum weight. Breastfeeding also reduces her risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as breast, uterine, and ovarian.
Once the new mother decides to breastfeed, there are certain precautions that she needs to take. She should maintain a healthy diet to keep herself strong and healthy. She should also get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids. The new mother should take good care of her breasts and nipples. She should also realize that any medication that she is taking can affect her baby. If she does need medication, the new mother should check with her doctor to decide if she will be able to breastfeed.
There are certain situations that make breast feeding impossible. A premature baby or a baby that is small in size may not get adequate nourishment for breast milk. A weak or sickly baby may also need a more nutritional supplement. Some mothers should also not consider breastfeeding. Mothers with tuberculosis, hepatitis, HIV, and drug and alcohol abuse problems should not breastfeed, as these medical conditions as well as the alcohol and drugs can be passed to their baby through their breast