Breastfeeding is Best: Research Shows Benefits of Breastfeeding for Both Mom and Baby
SIOUX FALLS (Sept. 1, 2008) - For thousands of years, the basics of breastfeeding have changed very little. "But what we understand scientifically about breastfeeding is so much greater than even a decade ago," said Lynn Josten, board certified lactation consultant with the Avera Breastfeeding Center at Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center.
Not only are there physical and practical benefits for both mom and baby. "It's a time with your baby that nobody else really has," said Dr. Andrea Miller, family practice physician with McGreevy Clinic Avera and new mother of twin boys, Benjamin and Jacob, born June 24. "While feeding twins is a bit more of a challenge, I definitely wanted to give it a try, knowing all the research behind it," Dr. Miller said.
Research shows that breast milk supports the baby's immune system in astounding ways. "It gives that immune system a good jump start that's not available any other way," Josten said. In fact, neonatal specialists at Avera McKennan recommend breast milk as a "medicine" for premature babies.
"Breast milk is the nutritional source that nature intended for babies. They digest it better and their bodies use it better," Josten said.
Moms benefit physically as well. Immediately after birth, breastfeeding causes action in the uterus to control bleeding. And because making breast milk burns 500 calories a day, breastfeeding moms often lose weight faster. "The body puts energy in store during pregnancy whether moms decide to breastfeed or not. If they don't burn it off that way, they'll have to burn it off another way," Josten said. In the long-term, breastfeeding may help protect against hormone-related cancers of the breast, cervix or uterus.
Convenience and cost are very practical benefits. "Breast milk is always ready. It's the right food at the right temperature," Josten said. Formula costs an average of $1,500 to $1,700 per year. "Breastfeeding is quite a cost savings, and is a very superior product."
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for the first year. A national goal is for 75 percent of new mothers to breastfeed their newborns. Avera McKennan's rate of breastfeeding mothers is 83 percent.
Even though 80 percent of new moms in South Dakota go back to work, breastfeeding is still very feasible with the use of a good breast pump, Josten said.
While breastfeeding is very natural, it's not uncommon for new moms to struggle a bit at first. Dr. Miller agreed that there's a learning curve - even for a doctor like herself. "It's great advice to not make the decision to quit breastfeeding in the first couple weeks, when you're so tired. The first two weeks are difficult, but that time will pass. If you give up too quickly, you'll probably regret it."
Moms may worry that their baby is not getting enough food, because they can't see how much is going in. It's important to realize that a newborn's stomach is very small - about the size of a shooter marble. A few days later, it's only the size of a ping pong ball. Production increases to meet demand. If there are plenty of wet and dirty diapers, mom can be assured that the baby is getting enough. Just to be sure, lactation consultants can weigh babies immediately before and after a feeding to see exactly how much they are getting.
Most often, successful breastfeeding is a matter of getting the right information and support - plus perseverance, Josten said. "Breastfeeding is a big piece of new parenthood. It's something you have to learn and adjust to along with everything else that goes with parenting."
Stephanie Hyde of Worthing, S.D., said that while several of her friends tried breastfeeding and gave up, she has a good start and plans to stick with it - for a year if possible. Her son, David Charles, was born June 14. An employer who allows her to pump at work and day care close to work are two points in her favor.
"Even though my mother and grandmother both tried breastfeeding and had trouble, I feel pretty determined," Hyde said. "With the health benefits, and all the other advantages, I want to make it work."
For more information, go to www.AveraWomens.org.
