Breastfeeding is extremely beneficial not only for the baby but also for the mother. It helps in normalizing the uterus after delivery, reducing bleeding, and maintaining weight. It also reduces the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Breastfeeding also strengthens the emotional bond between mother and child.
Breastfeeding: According to Dr. Nidhi Rajotia of Artemis Hospital, breastfeeding is healthy for both mother and child. After delivery, breastfeeding releases the hormone oxytocin, which brings the uterus back to its normal position and reduces bleeding. This helps the mother maintain her weight and prevents problems like fatigue and anemia. Experts say that breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It also provides relief from postpartum depression. Most importantly, it creates a b bond between mother and child.
Helps in Rapid Body Recovery
After delivery, a woman's body becomes weak. In such a situation, when the mother breastfeeds the baby, the secretion of the hormone oxytocin increases in the body. This hormone helps in shrinking the uterus, which allows the uterus to return to its normal position quickly. Apart from this, breastfeeding also reduces excessive bleeding after delivery. The risk of anemia and iron deficiency decreases, which prevents weakness and fatigue.
Helpful in Weight Loss
Women often complain that they have gained weight after delivery. But if they breastfeed their baby, extra calories are burned. This process gradually helps in bringing the weight to a normal level. Without any extra effort or dieting, the body's balance can be maintained through breastfeeding.
Protection from Diseases
The risk of several serious diseases is reduced in women who breastfeed. Research has found that breastfeeding reduces the likelihood of breast cancer and ovarian cancer. In addition, the risk of problems like type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure is also reduced.
Strengthens Mental Health
Many women go through postpartum depression after delivery. Breastfeeding proves helpful in such times. Breastfeeding releases the hormone prolactin in the body, which gives the mother a feeling of peace and tranquility. It helps the mother to get out of stress and depression.
Strengthens Bones
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the body loses minerals. But after breastfeeding, the body gradually replenishes itself. This is the reason why the risk of osteoporosis, i.e., weakening of bones, is greatly reduced in women who breastfeed.
Spacing the Next Pregnancy
Breastfeeding delays the onset of menstruation after delivery. This naturally creates a healthy gap between subsequent pregnancies. This is not only good for the mother's health but also beneficial for the development of the upcoming child.
