Breastfeeding is more than just nursing your child so they won’t get hungry. The mere fact that you are giving your child something that you have produced from your body gives you a sense of completeness. It may give mothers the sense of relief, particularly when the breasts are full and the baby can satisfy their hunger. However, there is more than just these fleeting feelings. There is so much more to breastfeeding that only mothers can experience.
Bonding With Your Child
Breastfeeding your baby is a moment that allows you to bond with your child. Even if your child cannot fully express their feelings, mothers can feel that their child is thankful for their presence. In some instances, feeding time can be when you devote much of your time with your baby. You will notice that your baby would often touch your face and even look at you when feeding. The skin-to-skin contact that you have with your baby can help improve your child’s emotional growth.
A Sense of Fulfillment
Mothers who breastfeed often share that they have a better sense of fulfillment. The very fact that they can provide nourishment to their babies can give them a sense of purpose and achievement. Breastfeeding can also help mothers improve their mood. It produces oxytocin and prolactin, both naturally soothing hormones that can lessen stress and encourage positive feelings. That’s it is common for you to feel happy and content when you are breastfeeding your child.
Promoting Weight Loss
Breastfeeding is a physical activity, and it will help you burn pregnancy weight away. If you don’t have time to work out because you are taking care of the baby, the simple task of breastfeeding can help you, even if you need to eat more to be able to produce the milk that your baby needs.
Increasing Calmness
Many couples are uncertain about whether they can cope with a crying baby and any associated illnesses. If you choose to breastfeed, this will be less of a concern, since most breastfed babies cry less. They also have a stronger immune system that will help them in fighting childhood illnesses. This can help support the whole family’s wellness.
Encouraging Mutual Trust
The relationship between mother and child is improved with breastfeeding. Mothers can understand their baby’s cues and the baby can also learn to develop trust with their mothers. While this may not be obvious at first, this mutual trust helps shape a child’s early behavior.
Learning to Breastfeed
As shared by Simply Nourish, mothers need to learn how to properly breastfeed their babies to avoid issues, such as inadequate feeding and poor latching. Here’s how to get started:
Hold the Baby Properly
Positioning the baby is critical in ensuring they can latch properly and get the most milk. If you are still starting, you can use breastfeeding support pillows to help prop the baby in the best position.
Latch the Baby
If the baby won’t latch properly, they will not be able to suck the milk properly, and this can cause air to distend their stomach. Learn how to scoop the breast into the baby’s mouth and make sure that your baby can take in the entire nipple and at least 1.5 inches of the areola.
Don’t Get Discouraged
If you think that your baby is not getting enough milk, do not abandon the practice of breastfeeding. The sucking motion will encourage milk production. Your baby may start feeding for a few minutes several times a day.
The owners of Cinnamon Hollow and many of its authors are not doctors and this is in no way intended to be used as medical advice. We cannot be held responsible for your results. As with any product, service or supplement, use at your own risk. Always do your own research and consult with your personal physician before using.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
