2torial #0617:
Learn2 Breast-feed Your Baby

Milk: It does a baby good

Once (perhaps when you were born), commercially prepared infant formula was all the rage among mothers of new babies. Now, many groups concerned with infant health (like the World Health Organization) recommend that babies be fed exclusively with breast milk until they are 4 to 6 months old, then nursed past their first birthday (with solid food gradually worked in to their diet).

It's up to you how long you want to breast-feed (even a very short amount of time is better than none at all). But it's easy to see why the experts are enthusiastic: Breast-feeding is marvelously healthy for both babies and mothers, and it may be the perfect way for the two of you to cement your relationship.

Why is breast-feeding so good for both mother and child?

• Breast milk supplies lactose, protein, and fat that babies can easily digest, as well as needed water, vitamins, and minerals.

• Breast milk contributes to a baby's health by supplying enzymes and antibodies that can't be duplicated in formulas. Breast-fed children are less likely to suffer from ear infections, allergies, diarrhea, and other ailments.

• Breast-feeding burns calories so mom gets her pre-pregnancy shape back quicker, and it triggers production of oxytocin, a hormone that helps shrink the uterus immediately following birth. It also reduces a woman's chances of developing certain cancers and osteoporosis.

All this and it's much cheaper than formula!

However, even though breast-feeding is natural, both you and your baby have to learn how to do it. The process can provoke a little anxiety on both sides. But take heart: nearly every woman can successfully breast-feed her child. With a little technical and emotional support, and some patience, so can you.

Note: Certain medications (including those for high blood pressure) may preclude your being able to nurse. Women with inverted nipples may also have difficulties establishing nursing. Review your medications with your doctor and talk to him or her if you have concerns about your ability to breast-feed.