Breastfeeding is clearly the healthiest choice when it comes to feeding your baby. Breast milk contains all of the necessary nutrients and antibodies for your baby's growth and development, as well as always being sterile and the ideal temperature. But despite your best efforts, some factors may hinder your ability to breastfeed. By preparing yourself for the potential roadblocks and actively searching out the proper support, you can successfully breastfeed your baby to provide him with the best nutrition possible.
Support System
Having the proper support in place can give you a better chance at successfully breastfeeding your baby. Living in an area where breastfeeding is encouraged can help you get the facts about the benefits of breastfeeding your baby and support in the form of lactation consulting can help you overcome hurdles to breastfeeding. Furthermore, having the full support of a partner helps increase your breastfeeding success, according to a 2009 study published in the "International Breastfeeding Journal."
Delivery Method
You may not realize that your delivery method can affect your duration of breastfeeding. A study published in a 2006 issue of the "Journal of Preventative Medicine and Public Health" found that women who delivered via cesarean section were less likely to breastfeed their babies than those who delivered vaginally. This could be attributed to a number of factors, such as the healing process or a baby with a low birth weight. While you can't necessarily choose the way you deliver, you can prepare yourself for added challenges should you deliver via c-section.
Socioeconomic Status
Socioeconomic factors, such as maternal education level, disposable income level and maternal unemployment play a role in the decision to and the sustainability of breastfeeding. A Swedish study published in a 2007 issue of the "European Journal of Public Health" noted that a lower degree of maternal education and less disposable income translated to a reduced chance of a mother breastfeeding her child, despite breastfeeding being the most economical choice. Knowing your options and educating yourself about the benefits of breastfeeding can help you continue to breastfeed your baby more successfully.
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression can begin as soon as three to four days after delivery and can affect your decision and ability to breastfeed. Not only can postpartum depression make you feel anxious, upset or sad while breastfeeding, but the medications you take to control your symptoms may not be compatible with breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor about the likelihood of medications being passed through your breast milk, and explore ways to control mild symptoms, such as daily exercise. While not all symptoms can be controlled through natural means, weighing your options with your doctor can help you know whether you can continue to breastfeed or if formula-feeding is more appropriate for your situation.
References
- "International Breastfeeding Journal"; Dads Make a Difference: an Exploratory Study of Paternal Support for Breastfeeding in Perth, Western Australia; Jenny Tohotoa, et al.; Nov. 2009
- "Journal of Preventative Medicine and Public Health"; Factors Affecting Breastfeeding Rate and Duration; W.J. Hwang, et al.; April 2006
- "European Journal of Public Health"; Effects of Socioeconomic Status on Breastfeeding Duration in Mothers of Preterm and Term Infant; Renée Flacking, et al.; Feb. 2007
- FamilyDoctor.org: Postpartum Depression and the Baby Blues
- "Current Psychiatry"; Postpartum Depression: What to Tell Patients Who Breastfeed; May 2008
