Breastfeeding is recommended by experts
New research has found that breastfed babies cry more and may be harder to settle, but experts are keen to get the message across that breastfeeding is still best.
The Medical Research Council Epidemiology department, based in Cambridge, has released new information suggesting that babies who are breast fed may be more temperamental than those who are bottle fed.
In a study of 316 babies, all aged three months, those who were breastfed were reported to cry more, and be harder to soothe, than the infants who were fed using formula.
But new mothers are being reassured that this is a natural part of the relationship between them and their child, and it shouldn't be interpreted as a sign of distress, and certainly shouldn't deter them from continuing to breastfeed.
Breastfeeding has always been recommended by experts as the best way for mothers to bond with their newborn baby, as well as ensuring they receive all the necessary nutrients. According to figures released by the Office for National Statistics last June, the percentage of new mums choosing to breastfeed rose from 76% to 81% over the five years between 2006-2011.
Despite this, it is still thought that a significant number of women will later drop breastfeeding in favour of formula - although this won't be known for definite until the next stage of the Infant Feeding Survey is released this year.
The NHS recommends that babies are exclusively breastfed for the first six months, and after this, breast milk alongside other food will help their growth and development.
They say that breastfed babies have:
- Less chance of diarrhoea and vomiting, and having to go to hospital as a result of it
- Fewer chest and ear infections
- Less likely to become obese and suffer from related illnesses later in life, such as type 2 diabetes
- Less chance of developing eczema
And breast isn't just best for baby - a new mother's health also benefits from it, as it lowers their risk of getting breast and ovarian cancers, burns up to 500 calories a day, and saves money since there is no need for costly formula and the necessary sterilising equipment. Most importantly, it can help to build the crucial bond between her and the newborn.
There can be occasions when mothers want to breastfeed but circumstances won't allow it - particularly if they are on certain medications. Many new mothers also struggle to cope with the stress and practicalities of trying to get their baby to feed, and worry that they aren't getting enough food to satisfy them, but health visitors are always on hand to try and resolve any issues to ensure both mum and baby are happy and healthy.
With something of a backlash against breastfeeding in public, December saw a group of almost 40 mothers take to the streets of Brighton for a mass-breastfeed. The protest was organised by a mother who had received several rude comments from fellow diners at a restaurant as she breast-fed her child.
So whilst it may seem as though there is a lot conspiring against mothers who choose to breastfeed, and a massive divide in opinion, the message from health professionals is clear - it is worth it.
Georgia Smith