Breastfeeding is a choice that mothers get to make. I personally did not breastfeed my daughter, even though I knew it had better outcomes for her health. I have always regrets about not breastfeeding my own child. Breast milk has all the nutrients needed for an infant to develop and be able to fight diseases.I chose this topic because it has been an ongoing conversation in the United States for a long time.
A few facts learned was, in 2016 Norway had the highest percentage of 99% of mothers who were breastfeeding. Irish women were the lowest percentage which was 50% In France, breastfeeding for a long time is frowned upon. United States is more open and more sensitive the norm of breastfeeding but in France they are not as open to the idea especially in public. In poor countries breast feeding is the only option for some mothers and babies. They don't have access to formula or clean water so breastfeeding is the only way of life for them. There are factors that keep moms from breastfeeding, such as, lack of supplies, working mothers, lack of support, poor lactate, post par-tum depression.
There are positive effects of breastfeeding and brain development. I have read so many good things about breastfeeding and its positive effects on infant development. After researching this topic, I believe it is great to breastfeed but its not the only way to have a healthy and smart child.
This will broaden my thoughts as to why some moms chose not breastfeed. For my future work with infants and toddlers I will be curious to see the brain development of a breast fed child vs a formula fed child.
www.europeanmama.com/breastfeeding-around-the-world/
Hello Bianca,
ReplyDeleteI also chose breastfeeding as the public health topic to explore. I believe there are many advantages to breastfeed; however, there are many reasons mothers choose not to. I also agree that one can have healthy and smart children even if they choose not to breastfeed.
Hi Bianca,
ReplyDeleteWow, I can't believe that 99% of mothers in Norway report that they breastfeed. It seems more than 1% would be unable for one reason or another. Kudos to them for finding a way to make it happen. As you said there are many health benefits to breast feeding but I have also seen bottle fed babies grow to be healthy, hearty, and intelligent- as I'm sure your daughter will.
Wendy
She is 6 and very healthy! Thanks
DeleteI am sure there is research about how breastfeeding is great and helps your child and it is healthier. But my daughter is above grade level in a lot of her academics and I only breast fed for about 6 months. Women are feeling pressured to breastfeed and are not educated in how to properly breastfeed or all the benefits. If feeling stressed to breastfeed it affects the mother and the production of milk. I think women should be educated about the benefits of breastfeeding but also the other options they have. There are also ways to purchase other women's breast milk. That sounds weird or gross but it is still another option.
ReplyDeleteI agree less pressure and more education will go along way.
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