Interesting facts about breast feeding for mum and bub

Breastfeeding is a big journey for every mother and some face greater challenges than others. Some women are unable to breastfeed or their time feeding may be cut short. No matter what your story is, you should be proud. Being a mother is the biggest job in the world.

I am seven months into my journey and I have finally begun using the Swing Maxi electric breast pump by Medela. I have found it tricky to have any time away for myself, let alone work, as I was always rushing back to feed Zippora. The ongoing juggle of trying to find balance as a mum...

Investing in an electric pump has been a game changer for me. I can slowly start working a few hours again and take an hour here and there for myself each week.

While breastfeeding certainly can come with its challenges, it does have incredible benefits for both mum and bub, here are four facts that I find incredibly interesting:

1. Colostrum AKA Liquid gold. Colostrum is the first milk your body makes and is often described as liquid gold due to its bright colour and incredible health properties. Colostrum is rich in vitamins, protein and carbohydrates ¹,²,³ and is packed full of white blood cells that produce antibodies to help fight off infection in those early days as your baby gets used to a non-sterile world outside your womb⁴.
2. Breast milk is packed with vital nutrients. Breast milk continues to contain absolutely everything a baby needs in terms of nutrition for the first six months of their life, which is quite remarkable. Breast milk contains hormones including melatonin⁵(which helps your baby's circadian rhythm find its rhythm with wake and sleep), growth factors⁶ (to help form babies digestive tract and other organs) and endorphins⁷ (which help reduce pain) to name just a few.
3. Your body will produce antigens to fight illness. During breastfeeding, baby saliva enters the mother’s breast and signals to the mum’s body the health status of her baby {8},⁹. If her baby is unwell, pathogens will be detected, and the mother’s body begins to create specific antigens to fight this infection¹⁰! This unique biochemical synergism boosts a baby's immunity
4. Breastfeeding has amazing health benefits for mum too! Breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancer {11),¹². Breastfeeding also produces naturally soothing hormones oxytocin and prolactin that promote stress reduction and positive feelings for mum in addition to enhancing the bond and connection with her baby¹³.

Being a breastfeeding mum is not without its challenges, breastmilk has incredible properties that can help improve the health of both mum and bub. Pumping with the Swing Maxi Double Electric Pump has allowed me a little more ‘me time’ and ensure my milk supply remains stable.

Remember mum’s you’re doing an amazing job!

Ema

BHSc Naturopathy - NHAA

Certified Fertility Awareness Educator - APNA