Breast Feeding

Breastfeeding is the best thing a mother can offer to her new born; it is also a complicated task. Doctors encourage new mothers to give their infants only breast milk during the first six months and to continue breastfeeds to 2 years and beyond. They strive to raise awareness of the risks and costs of introducing other foods and drinks to breastfed babies before 6 months. The benefits of breastfeeding also extend beyond a baby’s first months. The American Association of Pediatrics, for example, recommends breastfeeding a child until at least the age of 1, with other food and drinks introduced after six months. This is because babies who are fed only formula or a combination of formula and breast milk risk more frequent bouts of pneumonia, diarrhea and other infections.

• Human milk is the preferred feeding for all infants, including premature and sick newborns, with rare exceptions.
• Breastfeeding should begin as soon as possible after birth, usually within the first hour.
• No supplements (water, glucose water, formula, and so forth) should be given to breastfeeding newborns unless a medical indication exists.
• Exclusive breastfeeding is ideal nutrition and sufficient to support optimal growth and development for approximately the first 6 months after birth. It is recommended that breastfeeding continue for at least 12 months, and thereafter for as long as mutually desired.

I, personally, considered this a great recommendation, an asset to all women and babies.  

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