It’s one way to significantly reduce the baby budget while giving your tiny human the nourishment they need. But that’s not all there is to breastfeeding, and mums all over the world are catching on: according to UNICEF, the rates of exclusive breastfeeding during a child’s first six months were at 48% as of last year — a 10% increase from a decade ago.

Breastfeeding is a fail-safe method of giving your baby the best start in life. The rewards it reaps are plenty, from safeguarding against chronic conditions to encouraging cognitive development and fighting against cancers. Mothercare Malaysia zooms in on these benefits for both child and mother in this article, doubling down on why, while challenging, breastfeeding is seeing a merited upward trend! 

Breastfeeding Benefits for Baby

It is undeniable that breast milk is the best food source for a newborn. Expressed from the mother, human milk contains all the essential nutrients for a child’s growth and development, and can be easier absorbed compared to formula. Experts recommend feeding babies with breast milk for a minimum of six months. This arrangement can be continued until they are two years old.

Provides Optimal Nutrition  

Breast milk is naturally designed to contain all the nutritional properties your baby needs in their first six months of life. It includes a mixture of vitamins, minerals, fats, proteins, and antioxidants, even changing its composition along the way to meet your child’s evolving needs. 

In the first few days after birth, your breasts produce colostrum, a thick and yellowish fluid that leaks from your nipples. This is a highly concentrated first form of breast milk that will gradually transition into mature breast milk, which is usually produced in larger quantities and is thinner.

Boosts the Immune System 

Newborns are more susceptible to infections because of their immature immune system. This highlights the role of antibodies in warding off viruses and bacteria, thereby preventing various diseases. Breast milk is home to a selection of bioactive compounds that contribute a range of health benefits for newborns. For example, breast milk is known to contain antibodies that protect your baby from illness.

Promotes Digestive Health 

Colostrum serves the dual purpose of helping to develop your infant’s digestive tract and preparing it for accepting breast milk. Beyond that, breastfed babies have shown better digestive health, as breast milk is easier to digest than formula. This means fewer episodes of diarrhoea, constipation and spit-ups. John Hopkins Medicine states that breastfed children are less likely to suffer from milk allergies.

Reduces Disease Risk 

Breastfed infants are said to have lower hospitalisation rates than formula-fed infants. Moreover, breastfeeding is associated with a lower risk of chronic conditions, including asthma, obesity, eczema, type 2 diabetes, and celiac disease. The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development states that babies on a breast milk diet are at lower risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) compared to those who have never been breastfed.

Supports Cognitive Development

Studies have found that breastfeeding contributes to higher IQ and working memory in children. In addition to the fats that support brain power, recent findings suggest that a sugar molecule called myo-inositol may also contribute to the cognitive benefits of breast milk, by enhancing the formation of neural connections within the brains of newborns.

Breastfeeding Benefits for Mum

It can be hard to imagine that you stand to gain from the numerous health benefits that come with nursing your baby, but it’s true. Breastfeeding triggers a cascade of different responses within the mother’s body, ranging from speeding up recovery from childbirth to strengthening the bones. One of the most well-known perks of breastfeeding, as you may have heard, is how it quickens shedding pregnancy weight by promoting the burning of calories. Here are five factors linked with breastfeeding you may not be aware of. 

Assists Postpartum Recovery 

A hormone known as oxytocin is released during the breastfeeding period to help the uterus return to its normal size faster. This can reduce postpartum bleeding, also known as lochia, consisting of mucous, uterine tissue, blood, and oxytocin-induced contractions, consequently speeding up your recovery after delivery — whether you have given birth via a vaginal delivery or Caesarean section.

Lowers Cancer Risk

There is a direct correlation between the amount of time a woman spends breastfeeding and her decreased risk of cancer. Specifically, breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer. The act of breastfeeding aids in the removal of damaged breast tissue that could potentially develop into cancer, and also delays ovulation, further contributing to the reduction in overall cancer risk.

Protects Against Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) is one of the most common maternal mental health setbacks to be faced by mothers. It affects women shortly after giving birth, characterised by symptoms like anxiety, sadness and mood swings. Recent studies indicate that breastfeeding can have a positive impact on postpartum depression, as seen in lower rates of depression among breastfeeding mothers compared to those who do not breastfeed. Additionally, breastfeeding aids mothers who may be experiencing difficulties bonding with their babies. 

Improves Bone Health 

Some experts observed a temporary loss of bone density in mothers during lactation, potentially leading to issues such as osteoporosis. However, others argue that breastfeeding may actually offer protection against osteoporosis, fragility fractures and other related conditions. 

Convenience and Availability

Mums can breastfeed on-the-go in various environments as long as they feel comfortable and secure. Try nursing covers and maternity pillows to provide an additional layer of privacy and support. Breast milk provides instant nourishment, removing the need for preparation and allowing mothers to address their baby’s hunger without delay. Delivered directly from the breast, breast milk is always at the ideal temperature and consistency for the baby’s satisfaction, minimising fuss.

General Breastfeeding Tips for Better Comfort and Successful Attachment

Here are some quick breastfeeding tips to assist mothers in finding a comfortable position and achieving a successful latch, with proper techniques.

• Ensuring Support for Mum and Baby: Whenever you can, use pillows to support your arms and back. There are various breastfeeding positions, including reclined, cradle hold, and side-lying. Ensure your body is relaxed to prevent strain and discomfort. Your baby should be aligned in a straight line, facing you. Support your baby’s neck and shoulders with your hand, allowing their head to tilt back slightly. 
• Getting a Good Latch: A helpful guideline is to position your baby’s nose directly from your nipple. Bring your baby to your breast when their mouth is wide open; you can encourage this by gently stroking their lips with your nipple or guiding them to touch your breast. For effective nursing, your baby’s mouth should cover the entire nipple and a significant part of the areola. 
• Promoting Milk Flow: Gently massaging your breasts before and during feeding can help stimulate milk flow. Be sure to alternate between breasts during each feeding to ensure both are stimulated for milk production and emptied, which helps prevent engorgement. Mums can also explore using breast compression — applying pressure to the outside of the breast — for stronger milk transfer.

Encourage Emotional Bonding with Your Child Through Breastfeeding

Whether on the receiving or giving end, both mums and babies share the common benefit of emotional bonding through breastfeeding. From the intimate skin-to-skin contact to understanding babies’ cues and experiencing a unique and profound closeness, nursing directly from the breast can herald the start of a beautiful and nurturing relationship between mother and child.

This article emphasises that breastfeeding isn’t just about sustenance but also provides short- and long-term protection for both parties. With a deeper understanding of this delicate and priceless process, are you ready to start your own breastfeeding journey? If you have further questions, feel free to reach out to our Digital Nursery Advisors or visit any of our locations in Malaysia for personalised assistance. Alternatively, drop by one of our exclusive experience stores at Suria KLCC or Mid Valley Megamall. 

Whether you prefer to explore your breastfeeding essentials in person or online, Mothercare Malaysia is here to support you every step of the way. Come find us today.