Anjali Edbor1* and Roopal Khobragade2
1Professor, Department of Paediatrics, N.K.P. Salve Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre and Lata Mangeshkar Hospital Nagpur, India
2Assistant Professor, Department of Paediatrics, N.K.P. Salve Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre and Lata Mangeshkar Hospital Nagpur, India
*Corresponding Author: Anjali Edbor, Professor, Department of Paediatrics, N.K.P. Salve Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre and Lata Mangeshkar Hospital Nagpur, India.
Received: January 22, 2024; Published: February 01, 2024
Citation: Anjali Edbor and Roopal Khobragade. “The Essential Bond: Nurturing Newborns through Breastfeeding". Acta Scientific Paediatrics 7.3 (2024): 01-05.
In the intricate dedication of motherhood, breastfeeding emerges as an art form and a scientific marvel. This editorial seeks to explore the nuanced interplay between the artistic elements of nurturing and the scientific foundations that underpin breastfeeding. It delves into the exquisite balance of nature and nurture that defines the journey of breastfeeding and its profound impact on both the physical and emotional well-being of newborns.
Breastfeeding is not merely a mechanical process; it is a biological symphony orchestrated by nature. This biological symphony not only fuels the physical growth of newborns but also acts as a fortress, arming them with immune defenses that lay the foundation for a resilient and healthy life. Breast milk, often hailed as “liquid gold,” epitomizes the harmonious interplay of biological intricacies. Its composition, a meticulously balanced blend of proteins, fats, and antibodies, unfolds as a testament to nature’s precision in providing newborns with a tailored nutritional elixir. This biological symphony not only nurtures physical growth but also lays the groundwork for robust immune systems, fortifying infants against infections and diseases.
Breastfeeding offers significant advantages for infants, as indicated by systematic reviews and meta-analyses, with strong evidence supporting reduced risks of Nutritional adversity i.e. Malnutrition as well as Obesity, Respiratory and Gastrointestinal infections, SIDS, AOM, NEC, dental caries, malocclusion, and leukemia.
Breastfeeding lowers the risk for the incidence of NEC for preterm infants. In neonatal intensive care units where the parent’s expressed milk or donor human milk is used with preterm infants, NEC is significantly decreased [3-5]. Breastfeeding is protective against respiratory infections. Any breastfeeding (exclusive or partial) reduced the risk of hospitalization and mortality [2].
Breastfeeding provides protection against several Gastrointestinal and respiratory infections such as against bacterial and viral diarrheas caused by E coli, Rota virus and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). Breast milk is known to have antibacterial and antiviral properties. The lactoferrin in breast milk prevents the COVID-19 cell from interacting with the host cell. Oligosaccharides act as a barrier to pathogens, including COVID-19. Breast milk transfers maternal immune cells to the infant.
Breastfeeding may be associated with a reduced risk for developing asthma. One meta-analysis of three prospective cohort studies of fair-quality evidence concluded that any breastfeeding for at least 3 months was associated with a reduced risk for asthma [3].
Beyond its biological significance, breastfeeding is an art that empowers mothers. The act of nourishing a child through breastfeeding is a celebration of maternal strength and resilience. It transforms the maternal experience into a tapestry of empowerment, where mothers connect with their innate abilities, fostering a sense of confidence and fulfillment that echoes through the entire journey of motherhood [3-5].
Exclusive breastfeeding protects mental health because it upregulates the oxytocin system, which down-regulates the stress/ inflammatory response system [22].
Breastfeeding is an emotional dialogue between mother and child, transcending the nutritional exchange. The physical closeness, the rhythmic heartbeat, and the exchange of gazes during breastfeeding contribute to the development of emotional intelligence in infants. This emotional bonding lays the groundwork for secure attachments, nurturing not only physical health but also emotional well -being.
The results of several observational studies may not provide enough evidence to determine how greatly breastfeeding impacts a child’s cognitive abilities [13]. In a meta-analysis that controlled for maternal intelligence, children who were ever breastfed scored an average of 3.4 points higher on intelligence tests than children who were never breastfed [10].
In a study that controlled for socioeconomic status, children who were breastfed for more than 12 months scored 3.65 points at 5 years old compared to those children that breastfed for less than 2 months [11]. Long-term studies indicate that breast-fed babies may have cognitive advantages, showcasing the enduring impact of early nutritional choices.
The benefits of breastfeeding extend well into the future, reducing the risk of chronic diseases for both mother and child. Breastfed infants are less prone to obesity, diabetes, and certain allergies. Mothers who breastfeed experience a decreased risk of postpartum depression, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer. This underscores the profound and lasting impact that breastfeeding can have on the health trajectories of both parties involved. There could be a connection between breastfeeding and a decreased risk of childhood obesity. Longitudinal cohort study surveyed 3,006 women be- tween 2009 and 2014 regarding feeding methods and infant height and weight at 6-, 12-, and 24-month interviews. Longer duration of breastfeeding was associated with a decreased incidence of overweight and obesity of infants [14].
Breastfeeding lowers the risk for the incidence of developing childhood leukemia. Breastfeeding for longer than 6 months was associated with a reduced risk of acute lymphocytic leukemia [3,15,16].
There might be an association between breastfeeding and a reduced likelihood of developing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The protective factor of breastfeeding was reported to be dose dependent, with the greatest protective effect for infants who were breastfed for at least 12 months as compared to or 6 months. Breastfeeding lowers the risk for the incidence of dental caries. Children who are breastfed have less risk of developing dental caries than children who are fed nonhuman milk from a bottle [24].
Breastfeeding lowers the risk for the incidence of malocclusion. Breastfeeding is believed to influence the development of the infant craniofacial anatomy through the peristaltic movement of the tongue during the suckling at the breast. Bottle feeding results in less engagement of the oral structures, resulting in suboptimal development.
Breastfeeding decreases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Any breastfeeding is associated with a significantly reduced risk of SIDS [3,6,7]. The protective effect of breastfeeding against SIDS is strongest with exclusive breastfeeding [7]. Breastfeeding provides greater protection against SIDs when the infant is 2-4 months of age [8].
Moderate evidence suggests a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease with breastfeeding. Further research is needed for a comprehensive understanding.
Immediate benefit of Breast feeding to mother is prevention of postpartum hemorrhage, by virtue of release of vasopressin, which helps in contraction of uterus and thereby significant reduction in postpartum per vaginal bleed. Breastfeeding is also associated with lactational amenorrhea or a delay in the return of menses after birth. Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months or longer is associated with lactational amenorrhea and increased spacing of Pregnancies [17-19].
Communities play a vital role in elevating the art and science of breastfeeding. Providing robust support systems and embracing inclusivity create an environment where breastfeeding is not just an individual choice but a communal celebration. Collaborative efforts within communities foster an atmosphere where every mother feels supported, paving the way for healthier outcomes for both mothers and infants.
Acknowledging the diversity of maternal experiences is integral to championing inclusivity. Whether navigating workplace challenges or societal expectations, addressing these aspects is vital for creating an inclusive space where every mother can embark on the breastfeeding journey without judgment. Inclusivity promotes not only individual well-being but contributes to the broader societal fabric [20,21]. Returning to work has a negative impact on breastfeeding initiation, exclusivity, and duration rates. Full-time employment is more likely to shorten breastfeeding outcomes, and taking a maternity leave of 13 weeks or less is also associated with shorter breastfeeding duration. Alternatively, paid maternity leave has a positive impact on breastfeeding rates. More than half of countries worldwide offer at least 14 weeks of paid maternity leave, and 48% of countries now offer paternity leave. The numbers are higher in more developed countries. Many mothers in India face social barriers and stigmas associated with breastfeeding in public. Establishing clear information about feeding rooms not only facilitates a comfortable and private space for mothers but also works towards dismantling societal taboos surrounding breastfeeding. Government and private institutions play a pivotal role in this initiative. By incorporating details about feeding rooms in public spaces, such as malls, airports, and railway stations, authorities contribute to creating a breastfeeding-friendly environment. This, in turn, encourages mothers to embrace and continue breastfeeding, promoting the health and well -being of both infants and mothers. Cultural sensitivity should be a key consideration in disseminating information about feeding rooms. Recognizing and respecting diverse cultural norms is essential for the successful implementation of breastfeeding-friendly spaces across India.
The Need for Breastfeeding-Friendly Creches-Balancing career aspirations with the demands of motherhood is a challenge faced by many women in India. The article highlights the crucial role that breastfeeding-friendly crèches can play in easing this transition for working mothers, enabling them to continue breastfeeding while pursuing their professional goals. Breastfeeding-friendly crèches go beyond mere childcare; they offer a supportive environment that recognizes the significance of breastfeeding in infant nutrition and maternal well-being. The article emphasizes the need for these crèches to have designated spaces where mothers can comfortably and discreetly breastfeed or express milk. Update in January 2022, specific national guidelines for crèches in India were outlined in the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017 Some general aspects that were covered in the guidelines.
The economic impact of suboptimal breastfeeding is significant worldwide. An estimated 823,000 lives could be saved annually in low- and middle-income countries worldwide if breastfeeding practices were optimal9.
In conclusion, breastfeeding is an intricate tapestry woven with the threads of biology, art, and science. It is a journey that transcends the functional aspects of nourishment, encompassing the emotional, societal, and empowering dimensions of motherhood. Recognizing the art and science of breastfeeding is a call to action for societies to support, celebrate, and embrace this natural and fundamental practice, ensuring that every newborn’s beginning is nurtured with the richness of both artistry and scientific precision. In conclusion, breastfeeding is not merely a biological process but a multifaceted experience that nurtures the physical, emotional, and cognitive aspects of a newborn’s life. As healthcare providers and communities strive to support breastfeeding mothers, acknowledging and promoting the significance of this natural bond is paramount for the holistic well-being of our youngest generation. As we strive to nurture the essential bond through breastfeeding, we pave the way for healthier generations and a society that cherishes the fundamental connection at the heart of early childhood Development.
Increasing breastfeeding to optimal levels, as defined by the World Health Organization, would have a significant impact on lives and healthcare do money saved.
Copyright: © 2024 Anjali Edbor and Roopal Khobragade. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
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