COMPLICATIONS OF BREAST FEEDING

Complications of Breast Feeding

Abstract

The aim of this paper was to analyze the Complications of Breast Feeding.Scientific knowledge has demonstrated that breastfeeding is the preferred method of feeding and nurturing infants and is the primary means of achieving optimal infant health, growth, and development. Breast milk provides almost all of the necessary nutrients, growth factors, and immunological components a healthy term infant needs. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for at least the first year of life, and as long thereafter as is mutually desired by mother and child. However, breastfeeding rates differ substantially by race, socioeconomic level, and other demographic factors. In regard to health, growth, and development, the breast-fed infant remains the reference model against which all alternative feeding methods are measured.

Complications of Breast Feeding

Introduction

For most of human history, feeding infants at the breast was a fact of life. Although cross-cultural feeding practices varied broadly with regard to the timing of weaning and the span and variety of supplementary foods, infants counted on breast milk (maternal or of a damp nurse) for survival in their first several months, and usually years, of life.(Kukla, 2005) With the introduction of safe breast milk alternatives (infant formula) in the 20th century, breastfeeding has become an choice framed by access to resources; corporate interests; public policy; vying ideas about science, motherhood, and standards of infant care; and global inequalities.(Avishai,2007)

An allotment of mothers complains about tender nipples that make breast feeding painful and frustrating. There is good news though, as most mothers don't suffer that long.(Wolf, 2006) The nipples will strengthen up rapidly and render breast feeding virtually painless. Improperly positioned babies or babies that suck really hard can make the breasts exceedingly sore. Below, are some ways to ease your discomfort:

Make sure your baby is in the correct position, since a baby that isn't positioned rightly is the number one cause of sore nipples.

Once you have finished feeding, expose your breasts to the air and trial to defend them from apparel and other irritations.

After breast feeding, apply some ultra purified, medical grade lanolin, making sure to avoid petroleum jelly and other products with oil.

Make sure to wash your nipples with water and not with soap.

Many women find teabags ran under freezing water to supply some respite when placed on the nipples.

Make sure you vary your position each time with feeding to ensure that a distinct area of the ...