Experts in the health field advise that newborns should be given breast milk within the first hour of their birth and be exclusively breastfed for six months.
This is an extremely effective method to prevent newborn mortality and promote good health for the baby.
However, many mothers do not follow this advice, and some delay starting their babies on breast milk, while others choose to give their babies other liquids or use feeding bottles.
It is worth noting that breastfeeding has numerous benefits for both the mother and the baby.
Breast milk contains antibodies that protect against diseases such as diarrhea and respiratory infections. This helps to minimize the risk of death among infants.
"Moreover, breast milk provides all the necessary nutrients for the baby during the first six months of their life and is easy to digest and absorb."
Babies who are breastfed also experience long-term benefits such as a reduced risk of developing diseases like diabetes and obesity later in life.
They also tend to have higher IQs and perform better in school. Additionally, breastfeeding aids in the development of the baby's teeth and jaws, and creates a strong bond between the baby and the mother.
"Suckling has some effort to be put to as it's what helps to develop the jaws of the baby even as it grows," nutrition support officer from Unice Laura Kiige says.
For the mother, exclusively breastfeeding their baby for six months can also act as an effective contraceptive method during the first six months after childbirth, if their period has not yet returned.
Breastfeeding saves the mother time as it is nutritious, always available, and warm. It also reduces the chances of developing breast and ovarian cancer in the mother, while early initiation reduces the risk of bleeding after delivery.
Edited by Purity W.
