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We all know that breast milk is the gold standard of nutrition for an infant. It helps them develop a strong immune system and enables bonding with the mother. Breastfeeding also has several other health benefits for mother and baby, and that’s a well-known fact. It releases the hormone prolactin, which helps the mother relax and focus on the child while nursing. There is also a release of oxytocin, known as the love hormone, that builds a strong attachment between mother and baby (1). Even with these obvious benefits, mothers tend to give up on nursing their baby soon, and we are here to tell you the possible reasons why that happens. Read on to find out why moms quit breastfeeding soon:
The Breast Of Intentions
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Although we are trying to be clever with the puns, there’s a lot of truth as to why breast milk provides excellent nutrition for your baby, enabling healthy growth and development. It contains antibodies that help fight infections that are passed on from the mother to the baby. Colostrum, the first milk that comes out of the mother after birth, is packed with high levels of antibodies and can give your babies a head start at preventing and fighting off any infections (2).
Breast milk also contains probiotic properties that serve as healthy bacteria in the body called the human microbiome. It not only protects the baby from infections but can also decrease the risk of chronic diseases like asthma, obesity, allergies, and others (3).
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The benefits of breastfeeding extend to the mother too. Apart from the release of feel-good hormones that we mentioned earlier, there are several health benefits that a breastfeeding mother enjoys. They recover from childbirth and postpartum symptoms faster. The hormone oxytocin released during nursing helps the uterus return to its normal size and reduce postpartum bleeding (4).
Women who breastfeed also have a lower chance of developing ovarian and breast cancers. Some studies also suggest that breastfeeding may reduce the risk of type II diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and cardiovascular diseases like high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Besides all these health benefits, women develop a unique and powerful emotional bond with their babies through breastfeeding (5).
Expectation Versus Reality
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While it’s evident that breastfeeding is a blessing in disguise, why do so many nursing mothers quit breastfeeding soon? Many mothers wish to breastfeed their newborns for at least a year after birth but give up much earlier. Here are a few factors that could contribute to their decision:
1. Lack Of Support
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Whether it is emotional, physical, financial, or professional support, breastfeeding mothers often do not receive any. Being a mother is challenging as it is, and sometimes, it can be pretty overwhelming. Breastfeeding takes up time, energy, and strength from a recovering mother, and without adequate support, it could be tough to cope.
2. Health Reasons
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Some women face issues with breastfeeding. Maybe your baby has trouble latching on, or you experience pain while breastfeeding. You could also have a low supply of milk resulting in your baby eating insufficiently. These factors could make you emotionally and physically drained. Therefore, you might choose not to breastfeed. Consult a lactation expert and choose a proper course of action to know what’s best suited for you.
3. The Stress Factor
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Women have always heard that breastfeeding comes naturally to a mother. No one talks about the stress and nervousness associated with it. If your baby has trouble latching on, you have a low supply of milk, or any other complication with breastfeeding could take a toll on your mental health. The stress is real, and it could really drain you. Besides, breastfeeding takes up almost eight to ten hours during the day for the first few months after childbirth, and that can be quite taxing on you.
Sure, it’s no secret that breastfeeding is amazing for you and your baby. But there are several factors to consider about whether it is the right option for you or not. If you choose not to breastfeed and go with the formula-feeding route, there’s nothing wrong with it. So, don’t beat yourself up for it! When did you stop breastfeeding your baby? Let us know in the comments below!
