Breastfeeding can easily feel like a lonely proposition. New mothers often face it by themselves, managing and navigating the physical and emotional demands of breastfeeding. However, they don’t have to go it alone and can receive breastfeeding help from an OB-GYN.
From providing anticipatory guidance to addressing common breastfeeding challenges, an OB-GYN can play a crucial role in supporting breastfeeding success.
Why is Breastfeeding Important?
Breastfeeding is important for both the baby and mother and can have a pivotal impact on their overall well-being and health. According to the World Health Organization, breast milk delivers all of the essential energy and nutrients an infant needs for the first months of life, and can help meet some of the child’s nutritional needs throughout its second year. Breast milk also provides antibodies that protect against infections and diseases. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that breastfeeding lowers a baby’s risk of asthma, obesity, type 1 diabetes, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Additionally, breastfed babies experience healthy weight gain, and studies suggest breastfeeding may promote cognitive development.
For mothers, breastfeeding has strong postpartum recovery benefits. It can help the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size and potentially reduce postpartum bleeding. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, mothers who breastfeed have a decreased risk of breast, ovarian, endometrial, and thyroid cancers, and a lower risk of experiencing hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis. Breastfeeding also potentially aids mothers in post-pregnancy weight loss, and it helps build a strong bond between mom and baby.
How an OB-GYN Supports Breastfeeding Success
The following are a few of the many ways mothers can benefit from OB-GYN breastfeeding support:
Prenatal Counseling
OB-GYNs can help set up mothers for breastfeeding success even before the baby is born. During prenatal appointments, they can discuss an array of breastfeeding topics including its benefits and any concerns a mother may have. They’ll give you all of the essential how-to’s such as proper latch, positioning, and milk expression techniques.
Overcoming Breastfeeding Challenges
After childbirth, they can pinpoint potential breastfeeding challenges out of the gate. This includes but is not limited to latch issues when breastfeeding, low milk supply, engorgement, mastitis (infection of the breast tissue), nipple pain, and more.
Hormonal Guidance
Hormonal changes and breastfeeding go hand-in-hand. Once a mother begins breastfeeding, the levels of hormones associated with lactation, such as prolactin and oxytocin, will lower. OB-GYNs can monitor the body’s natural hormonal shifts and can address imbalances that may occur. These changes may affect milk supply and mood, and OB-GYNs provide hormonal guidance and advice on managing these changes.
Make an Appointment with Rosa Gynecology
Allow the team at Rosa Gynecology to support you with gynecology care, breastfeeding guidance, obstetrics up to 12 weeks, and access to helpful resources and referrals. With a blend of professionalism and compassion, we’re here to help you through this exciting time. Start a conversation by scheduling an appointment online or calling 770-487-9604.
