Importance of breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is good for the health of the baby and mum. However, for your baby, breastfeeding is more than just sustenance. Breastfeeding aids in creating a strong, enduring link between you and your child because your little one can feel, smell, see and be close to you while you nurse them.
Breastfeeding may take some time to get used to. It might even be challenging at first. The significance to you and your child, though, makes it worthwhile. You can start and continue breastfeeding with the support of family and friends.
Why is it necessary to breastfeed your baby?
Breastfeeding is your baby’s crucial source of nutrition and liquid and only a mother can give this. Each breastmilk feed fits your baby’s needs and developmental stage. Also, breastfed babies are less likely to get sick than formula-fed ones.
Non-breastfed infants have a higher chance of developing kidney or bladder infections, stomach and bowel illness (including diarrhea), ear infections, allergies (including eczema and asthma), and SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome—cot death).
Right from pregnancy, you can ensure proper fetal growth by eating meals rich in nutrients such as carbohydrates, protein, lipids and fats, water, essential fatty acids, fiber, vitamins.
Breastfeeding benefits for nursing mothers
It’s crucial for your health that you breastfeed your child. It can:
1. Make it easier for your body to get back to its pre-pregnancy state
2. Reduce the risk of breast or ovarian cancer
3. Reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis (weak bones) as you age
4. Aids in strengthening your bond with your infant.
The breast is crucial for breastfeeding. Care for your breast by cleaning it daily, avoiding breast engorgement by breastfeeding often or expressing, and avoiding cracking of nipple.
Hey Mothers, You Can Do It! You Can Make It Work!
Here are a few tips:
1. Breastfeeding often (8–12 times in 24 hours) and shortly after giving birth.
2. Hold your child close to you.
3. You shouldn’t offer your baby a bottle or pacifier until they breastfeed well.
4. Solely offer breast milk. See breastmilk storage tips here.
Our antenatal classes are held every third Saturday of the month at Mother and Child Hospital, where we discuss topics like this and share tips to have a wonderful experience with your baby. Upon conception, our team of experienced Obstetricians, Gynecologists, and midwives will attend to you regularly until birth and after delivery.
We are a renowned maternity hospital, children’s hospital and family clinic. If you’re looking for a top specialist hospital in Nigeria and a top private hospital in Lagos, you’re in the right place. Our consultants are skilled in various medical disciplines, including surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, family medicine, pediatrics and more. We offer timely, comprehensive and outstanding healthcare services to all our clients in an environment filled with love, care and comfort.
To register for antenatal at Mother and Child Hospital, visit any of our two locations.
Omole: 2, Omole Layout, Ogunnusi Road, Ojodu, Lagos State, Nigeria.
Adeniyi Jones: 39 Adeniyi Jones Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos State,
You can also call 07036202190 (Omole) or 07068372987 (Adeniyi Jones).
