Breastfeeding Basics: A Guide for Indian Mothers

Medically Reviewed by:  Dr. Sonali Pandey– DCH, MBBS, DNB Paediatrics

Welcome to our guide, ” Breastfeeding Basics: A Guide for Indian Mothers”! In India, breastfeeding is a cherished tradition that especially connects mothers and babies. This blog will discuss everything you need to know to breastfeed your baby confidently.

We’ll discuss why breastfeeding is important and how to start. We’ll also share tips on keeping yourself healthy while breastfeeding and how to handle any challenges you might face. Plus, we’ll explore how breastfeeding fits into Indian culture and traditions.

Whether you’re a new mom or have breastfed before, we’re here to support you on your breastfeeding journey. Let’s dive in and discover the joys and benefits of breastfeeding together!

Introduction

Breastfeeding is fundamental for a child’s health and growth, offering vital nutrients, and antibodies, and fostering a strong mother-child bond. In India, breastfeeding practices are diverse, ranging from exclusive feeding to varied durations of breastfeeding.

Cultural beliefs greatly influence breastfeeding practices in India. For instance, in rural West Bengal, traditions like maintaining ritual purity, adhering to dietary restrictions based on the concept of ‘hot and cold’ foods, and observing seclusion after childbirth are prevalent. Similarly, in Hindu communities, breastfeeding is nearly universal and often extends beyond infancy.

Also Read: Tips for Understanding and Responding to Different Baby Cries

Benefits of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding brings a host of advantages for both the baby and the mother, spanning nutritional, health, and emotional dimensions.

A. Nutritional Benefits for the Baby Breast milk furnishes vital nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and antibodies crucial for a baby’s growth and development. It’s easily digestible, with colostrum aiding in the baby’s digestive system development. Breast milk adjusts to meet the evolving needs of the growing baby.

B. Health Benefits for the Mother Breastfeeding supports postpartum recovery and aids in shedding post-childbirth weight. It lowers the mother’s risk of high blood pressure, specific cancers (breast, ovarian), and type 2 diabetes.

C. Emotional Bonding Between Mother and Baby Breastfeeding cultivates a profound emotional connection between mother and child through skin-to-skin contact and the release of oxytocin, fostering feelings of tranquility and security. This bonding experience is pivotal for the emotional well-being of both mother and baby.

These advantages underscore the significance of breastfeeding as a foundational aspect of infant care, promoting not only optimal health but also nurturing a profound bond between mother and child.

Getting Started with Breastfeeding

To begin a successful breastfeeding journey, it’s vital to grasp essential aspects such as recognizing feeding cues, finding a comfortable feeding position, ensuring a proper latch, and addressing common challenges.

A. Recognizing Feeding Cues Babies display subtle cues when hungry, like sucking fingers, fists, rooting, or moving. It’s crucial to identify these cues early to initiate feeding before the baby becomes distressed and starts crying. Responsive feeding means allowing the baby to guide the process and promptly responding to their cues to ensure they receive enough nourishment and comfort.

B. Establishing a Comfortable Feeding Position Finding a comfortable and well-supported position for both mother and baby is crucial for successful breastfeeding. Proper positioning can prevent discomfort and ensure effective milk transfer during feeding.

C. Ensuring a Proper latch is essential for efficient milk transfer and preventing nipple soreness or pain. Ensuring the baby latches onto the breast correctly involves positioning them to allow for a deep latch and effective sucking.

D. Handling Common Breastfeeding Challenges Challenges like sore nipples, engorgement, or low milk supply may arise during breastfeeding. Seeking support from lactation consultants, healthcare providers, or breastfeeding peer support workers can effectively address these challenges.

By understanding these key aspects of breastfeeding, you can establish a strong foundation for a positive and fulfilling breastfeeding experience for both you and your baby.

Also Read: The Benefits of Baby Massage: Techniques for Soothing and Bonding

Nutrition and Diet for Breastfeeding Mothers

Maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet is vital for breastfeeding mothers to support their health and provide optimal nourishment for their babies. Here’s what you need to know about nutrition and diet for breastfeeding mothers:

A. Importance of a balanced diet:

• A wholesome, nutritious diet is crucial during lactation to meet increased energy demands and ensure the quality of breast milk.
• Breastfeeding mothers need an extra intake of about 550 kcal per day to support milk production.
• Good maternal nutrition is essential for the health of both mothers and infants, underscoring the need for a well-rounded diet.

B. Foods to include for optimal breastfeeding:

• Include iron-rich foods like pulses, legumes, and green leafy vegetables, as well as calcium sources such as milk, cheese, and paneer.
• Protein-rich foods like eggs, chicken, fish, pulses, and legumes support the baby’s rapid growth during lactation.

C. Foods and beverages to avoid or limit:

• Limit caffeine intake by reducing consumption of coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate drinks.
• Avoid or restrict alcohol consumption, as it can pass into breast milk and affect the baby.
• Limit high-fat and high-sugar foods, as they provide “empty” calories with little nutritional value.

D. Addressing specific dietary concerns in the Indian context:

• Indian dietary practices often include herbs and spices like cumin, fenugreek, garlic, and turmeric, believed to aid digestion and increase milk production.
• Cow’s milk may not be ideal for infants due to potential allergies and colic-inducing proteins.
• Following a nutrient-dense diet rich in essential nutrients like vitamin D, vitamin A, calcium, choline, iodine, and zinc is crucial for lactating mothers in India.

By focusing on a well-balanced diet that includes nutrient-rich foods while avoiding alcohol and high-sugar items, breastfeeding mothers can ensure their well-being and the optimal growth and development of their babies.

Breastfeeding in Different Phases

Newborn Stage: Feeding Frequency and Duration Newborns typically feed every 2-3 hours, with each session lasting 15-30 minutes. Baby might have to be stimulated or waken up to ensure 2-3 hourly feeds but gradually they can regulate their intake as per need

Growth Spurts and Cluster Feeding Growth spurts coincide with rapid baby growth, leading to cluster feeding to boost milk production. While common during these periods, cluster feeding can be tiring for mothers.

Introducing Solid Foods while Continuing Breastfeeding Around 6 months of age, babies can start solid foods alongside breastfeeding. Breastfeeding can persist until the child is 2 years or older, alongside complementary foods.

Extended Breastfeeding: Benefits and Considerations Extended breastfeeding offers emotional bonding and ongoing nutritional support. Maintaining a nutrient-rich diet is crucial for sustaining milk production during this period.

Expressing and Storing Breast Milk

Using a Breast Pump Effectively

A. Choosing the Right Breast Pump Select a breast pump that is comfortable and user-friendly.

B. Ensuring Hygiene

1. Clean the pump kit and tubing before each use to maintain hygiene.

C. Proper Storage Guidelines

1. Store expressed breast milk in clean glass or BPA-free plastic bottles with secure lids.
2. Refrigerate breast milk at or below 40°F (4°C). (used within 4-8 days)
3. Freeze breast milk at or below 0°F (-18°C). (stored for up to 6-12 months)
4. Label milk containers with the date of expression and the child’s name if intended for childcare.
5. Store breast milk in small portions (2 to 4 ounces) for convenience.

D. Tips for Maintaining Milk Supply

1. Pump at regular feeding times to sustain milk production.
2. Pump from both breasts simultaneously to enhance milk yield.
3. Prioritize pumping sessions in the morning when milk production tends to be highest.

Also Read: The Benefits of Baby Massage: Techniques for Soothing and Bonding

Breastfeeding and Returning to Work

Returning to work while continuing to breastfeed necessitates careful planning and support for a seamless transition. Here are essential considerations:

A. Planning for Pumping Breaks at Work

• Open dialogue with your employer regarding your breastfeeding requirements and explore options for breaks to express milk.
• Familiarize yourself with your legal entitlements, such as reasonable break times for pumping without wage deductions.
• Advocate for a private, secure space equipped with electricity for pumping sessions.

B. Choosing Suitable Childcare Arrangements

• Opt for childcare facilities near your workplace, facilitating breastfeeding during breaks or before/after work hours.
• Ensure expressed breast milk is clearly labeled and dated for caregivers, conducting a trial run with childcare before resuming work.
• Educate caregivers on proper handling and feeding of expressed breast milk.

C. Strategies for Balancing Work and Breastfeeding

• Negotiate flexible working hours with your employer to accommodate breastfeeding needs while maintaining work-life equilibrium.
• Prioritize breastfeeding during non-working hours to sustain milk production and strengthen bonding with your infant.
• Engage with breastfeeding support groups or seek guidance from experienced working mothers who have successfully balanced breastfeeding with professional commitments.

By proactively addressing pumping breaks, selecting appropriate childcare, and implementing strategies for work-life balance, mothers can effectively navigate the challenges of resuming work while continuing to breastfeed.

Addressing Common Concerns and Challenges

Returning to work while continuing to breastfeed necessitates careful planning and support for a seamless transition. Here are essential considerations:

A. Planning for Pumping Breaks at Work

• Open dialogue with your employer regarding your breastfeeding requirements and explore options for breaks to express milk.
• Familiarize yourself with your legal entitlements, such as reasonable break times for pumping without wage deductions.
• Advocate for a private, secure space equipped with electricity for pumping sessions.

B. Choosing Suitable Childcare Arrangements

• Opt for childcare facilities near your workplace, facilitating breastfeeding during breaks or before/after work hours.
• Ensure expressed breast milk is clearly labeled and dated for caregivers, conducting a trial run with childcare before resuming work.
• Educate caregivers on proper handling and feeding of expressed breast milk.

C. Strategies for Balancing Work and Breastfeeding

• Negotiate flexible working hours with your employer to accommodate breastfeeding needs while maintaining work-life equilibrium.
• Prioritize breastfeeding during non-working hours to sustain milk production and strengthen bonding with your infant.
• Engage with breastfeeding support groups or seek guidance from experienced working mothers who have successfully balanced breastfeeding with professional commitments.

By proactively addressing pumping breaks, selecting appropriate childcare, and implementing strategies for work-life balance, mothers can effectively navigate the challenges of resuming work while continuing to breastfeed.

Breastfeeding and Cultural Beliefs in India

Breastfeeding practices in India are deeply intertwined with cultural beliefs and traditions, shaping the experiences of mothers and families. Here are key insights into breastfeeding within the Indian cultural context:

A. Traditional Beliefs and Practices

1. In Hindu communities, breastfeeding is widespread and often extends beyond infancy, reflecting the profound cultural importance of motherhood and nurturing.
2. Cultural ceremonies and rituals surrounding childbirth can influence breastfeeding practices, including delayed initiation due to beliefs that the mother’s milk is not immediately ready after birth.
3. Notions of ritual purity, dietary restrictions such as ‘hot and cold’ foods, and postpartum seclusion significantly impact lactation and breastfeeding practices in India.

B. Navigating Cultural Expectations

1. Motherhood holds significant value in Indian culture, defining women both communally and personally, thus emphasizing breastfeeding as a natural and integral part of mothering.
2. Immigrant Indian women often maintain their cultural identity through breastfeeding, driven by pride in their heritage and a desire to breastfeed according to their ethnic and cultural background.
3. Acculturation may influence breastfeeding duration among immigrant Indian women, with social support playing a crucial role. However, adopting the host country’s cultural values, such as in Australia, may challenge breastfeeding practices.

C. Advocating for Support Systems

1. Healthcare professionals should deliver services with cultural sensitivity to support ethnic Indian immigrant women in maintaining their breastfeeding practices amid acculturation challenges.
2. Addressing psychosocial and cultural barriers to early breastfeeding practices is vital to improving childhood nutrition outcomes in India, where malnutrition rates persist despite breastfeeding benefits.
3. Promoting awareness about breastfeeding benefits and supporting working women through maternity benefits, nursing breaks, and mother-friendly workplaces are crucial steps to encourage sustained breastfeeding among Indian women.

Indian mothers, cherish breastfeeding as an invaluable connection between you and your little one, deeply entrenched in our rich heritage. Your dedication to breastfeeding promotes your baby’s well-being and enriches our society’s cultural tapestry. Have faith in your body’s innate ability to provide nourishment and embrace the wonderful journey of motherhood with unwavering confidence and immense pride. If you seek personalized guidance, consider consulting with Dr. SM Pandey at Sanjivini Super Speciality Hospital in Lucknow.