Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) is observed every year from 1 to 31 October, also known as “Pink Month”. This month is observed with the aim of creating awareness about breast cancer disease. It affects one in eight women during their lifetime. Since it is Awareness Month, there are many myths about extended breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is one of the most important activities that help provide nutrition to your baby and is also important for one’s health. When you feed, enjoy your baby’s coolness and movement, those times become your proudest moments.Also Read – Breastfeeding: 5 health tips for new mothers to maximize nutrition
However, while doing so, you may not have paid any attention to specific time frames, such as how long you will continue breastfeeding or when it is appropriate to stop. The practice of continuing to breastfeed a baby during their first year or when they are toddlers is known as “extended breastfeeding” and has both advantages and disadvantages, according to health experts. Dr. By Vrishali Bichkar, Consultant Paediatrician & Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospital, Lullanagar, Pune states some pros and cons of extended breastfeeding. Also Read – Breastfeeding Diet Foods: 5 Foods That Can Help Increase Your Breast Milk Supply – Watch Video
What is extended breastfeeding?
Extended breastfeeding is defined as the continuation of breastfeeding for longer than is customary or usual in a culture, often more than one or two years. It can provide various benefits to the breastfeeding parent and baby. Also Read – Breastfeeding Tips for New Moms: Top 8 Dos and Don’ts for Moms
Extended breastfeeding or breast feeding, however, can potentially present some difficulties. This is especially true in societies where breastfeeding is discouraged or where prolonged breastfeeding is uncommon. People who continue to nurse past the “normal” age may face stigma and criticism.
Advantages:
Both breastfeeding and prolonged breastfeeding have benefits for a child’s general health and survival. The wonderful benefits of extended nursing for mother and baby should not be overlooked. Extended breastfeeding is a completely personal choice and may not be for everyone. The many benefits of continuous breastfeeding include:
- nutrition – It is a myth that breast milk loses its nutritional content or starts turning into water after childbirth. The nutritional content of breast milk is maintained throughout the period of breastfeeding. Additionally, as the baby grows and its demands change, the composition of breast milk can also change significantly. A year after delivery, breast milk contains more fat and energy, which is good for the baby.
- Binding: As your baby grows, independent exploration and activity take precedence over constant cuddling and holding in their world. Extended nursing can give women a hidden opportunity to spend time cuddling, holding and bonding with their babies.
- Comfort: When you breastfeed your baby for long periods of time, it can become their main source of comfort. It will calm your baby when he is anxious or upset, but as a mother, it can be stressful. Breastfeeding and breastfeeding can benefit a child’s ability to regulate emotions and sleep better, but they should not be the only methods used.
- Improves overall health of mother and baby: Long-term health benefits can be gained through extended breastfeeding and breastfeeding. Exclusive breastfeeding beyond six months reduces the risk of type 1 and type 2 diabetes and helps protect the baby against blood-related diseases such as leukemia or lymphoma. Extended breastfeeding for mothers can reduce the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, diabetes and heart diseases.
Disadvantages:
Extended nursing can strengthen your emotional bond with your baby, but there are also some pitfalls. It can be uncomfortable for you if your baby wants to rest and breastfeed at unusual hours. He or she will probably start talking more and let you know they are hungry, which can be offensive. Teach your child your cues that he or she needs a snack under these circumstances. Other potential difficulties include difficulties at work, such as nursing away from home, especially during long workdays. Some women’s ovulation can be suppressed by prolonged nursing.
conclusion
Many criticize their infants for continuing to breastfeed. You can respond to such criticism simply by stating that you are following your “doctor’s recommendation” in a straightforward and non-defensive manner. Extended breastfeeding has been practiced throughout human history. It can work or it can be difficult. Decide whether you want to continue breastfeeding your baby until they wean naturally, rather than stopping them for fear of judgment and social pressure.
