As the World World Breastfeeding Week concludes, the focus has been firmly on the incredible benefits that breastfeeding provides to both mothers and babies. Celebrated annually from August 1 to August 7, this global campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding and highlight its numerous advantages for both infant and mother.
The Sultanate of Oman’s Ministry of Health, in a recent statement, emphasised the profound bond between a child and its mother from the moment of birth, which deepens through breastfeeding. This emotional connection not only benefits the child’s well-being but also positively impacts the mother’s health.
The ministry distributed a comprehensive awareness brochure underlining that despite various options for infant formula available in the market, nothing compares to the nutritional value and benefits of breast milk. Breast milk provides all the essential nutrients a baby needs, strengthens their immunity, and protects them from diseases and infections. Additionally, breastfeeding fosters a strong emotional bond between the baby and mother, creating a sense of warmth and security for the child.
The brochure explained the significance of colostrum, the first milk produced by the mother’s breast during the initial days after birth. Colostrum is rich in essential nutrients and contains vital antibodies that safeguard the child from illnesses and infections.
“Breastfeeding has innumerable benefits for the child, we summarise the most important of them here. In addition to providing the baby with all the essential nutrients needed during the first months, it enhances and strengthens the child’s immune system and protects him from infectious diseases. It also reduces the risk of obesity and related diseases in the long term. It helps the child to grow in a healthy way. The advantages of breastfeeding for the child are extensive. It not only provides essential nutrients during the early months but also enhances and strengthens their immune system, reducing the risk of infectious diseases and obesity-related issues in the long run. Furthermore, breastfeeding contributes to the child’s overall healthy growth.” For mothers, breastfeeding offers numerous health benefits too. It helps reduce bleeding after childbirth and decreases the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Additionally, breastfeeding is associated with a reduced possibility of obesity, protects against osteoporosis, and lowers the risk of heart disease.
The brochure also addressed common questions, such as whether breastfeeding is safe when the mother has the flu. The response emphasised that breastfeeding is not only safe but also beneficial, as the mother’s milk contains antibodies that help strengthen the baby’s immune system. To minimise the transmission of infection, it is advisable for the mother to wear a mask and practice proper hand hygiene.
Experts provided practical advice for storing breast milk, recommending special containers and labelling to ensure its freshness and safety. For mothers who may be away from their babies, educating the caregiver on how to properly warm and feed expressed milk is crucial.
Breastfeeding after a cesarean delivery was also emphasised as essential for increasing milk production. Mothers who undergo cesarean sections may experience delays in starting breastfeeding, making initial support and guidance vital to establish successful breastfeeding.
Moreover, breastfeeding remains crucial even after the first six months of the baby’s life. Specialists advocate breastfeeding for at least two years, as breast milk contains unique components that aid the child’s natural and healthy growth, while also bolstering their immunity.
For further assistance and guidance, experts recommend visiting nearby Breastfeeding Clinics in the country. These clinics offer valuable support and information to mothers on their breastfeeding journey.
As World Breastfeeding Week concludes, it is crucial to recognise that no substitute exists for the unparalleled benefits of breastfeeding. It not only nourishes the baby but also strengthens the mother-child bond, fostering a healthy and loving start to life. Embracing breastfeeding can lead to a brighter and healthier future for both mother and child.
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