Getting back to Basics: The Benefits of Breastfeeding
Who hasn’t seen the look of absolute contentment on the face of an infant being breastfeed while nestled in the arms of its mother?
Recent studies show that babies who are exclusively breastfed for the first six months are less likely to develop ear infections, diarrhea, and respiratory illnesses. Studies also show that breastfed babies are less likely to develop childhood obesity, a growing problem for today’s youth. In addition, a woman who breastfeeds her babies receives a health benefit as well.
Breastfeeding is a natural form of birth control, and it reduces the risks of breast and ovarian cancer later in life. Breastfeeding also helps a new mom return to her pre-pregnancy weight faster, thus helping to lower rates of adult obesity and all of its attendant ailments.
Breast milk is free, convenient, and the food least likely to cause allergic reactions in babies. Finally, the act of breastfeeding contributes greatly to developing and cementing the lifelong bond between mother and child.
Unfortunately, many women do not breastfeed their children. This can happen for a number of reasons; perhaps a new mom lacks the confidence to breastfeed and doesn’t get the encouragement and practical support she needs at home. Some women might reject breastfeeding on the misguided belief that store-bought formula is better for her child than her own breast milk.
To this end, the Women’s caucus at the Hawaii State Legislature has introduced a resolution to encourage the John A. Burns School of Medicine, and the School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene to include breastfeeding as part of their educational curriculum. Once in practice, these new doctors and nurses who receive this education can give expectant and new mothers the information and confidence they need to get mother and baby off to the best start possible.
