KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 19 (Bernama) — Mothers are encouraged to breastfeed their babies as it offers significant benefits for both the mother and the child, according to Dr. Vicky Ho Miaw Ping, an Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Fetal Medicine consultant at Sunway Medical Centre (SMC).
Dr. Ho highlighted that research has shown breast milk, particularly colostrum, is packed with essential minerals, proteins, vitamins, and antibodies that help strengthen a baby’s immune system. Colostrum is the first form of milk produced during pregnancy and immediately after childbirth.
“Breastfeeding not only supports the baby’s growth and improves digestive function, but skin-to-skin contact during feeding helps stabilize the baby’s body temperature and provides a sense of security,” she said in a statement today.
Dr. Ho added that breastfeeding offers immediate health benefits for mothers. “Oxytocin, a hormone released during breastfeeding, stimulates uterine contractions, which can reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. Additionally, breastfeeding may lower the mother’s risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer and aids in achieving optimal postpartum weight,” she said.
Dr. Ho recommended that mothers prepare for breastfeeding during the prenatal stage, starting around the 37th week of pregnancy. She advised expectant mothers to attend antenatal classes to gain valuable insights from gynecologists and lactation experts.
“Mothers-to-be can also gently massage their breasts to stimulate the mammary glands and encourage milk production. After childbirth, it is crucial to stay hydrated to avoid dehydration, which can reduce milk production and increase the risk of thrombosis. Maintaining hydration ensures that mothers can safely breastfeed their babies,” she advised.
Dr. Ho also stressed the importance of a balanced and nutritious diet, emphasizing the need for essential nutrients like calcium and iron, which are often depleted during pregnancy and breastfeeding. She added that adequate rest and managing physical, emotional, and mental stress are crucial for continued breastfeeding.
Addressing the challenges of breastfeeding, Dr. Ho noted that psychological and emotional factors, such as trauma from childbirth, and physical issues, such as discomfort from childbirth wounds, cracked nipples, and mastitis, can hinder breastfeeding. These problems often arise due to improper breastfeeding techniques.
She recommended that mothers experiencing pain or discomfort while breastfeeding should ensure their baby is positioned correctly. Positions such as cradle hold, cross-cradle hold, football hold, or lying on the side can help alleviate discomfort.
While breastfeeding is highly encouraged, Dr. Ho acknowledged that it is not always possible for all mothers, particularly those who have undergone mastectomy surgery due to breast cancer. “If a mother still has one healthy breast, breastfeeding can continue,” she said. However, breastfeeding is not advised for mothers who are infected with HIV, tuberculosis, or are taking specific medications like psychotropics, antimetabolites, or chemotherapy.
She also mentioned that some babies may face challenges with breastfeeding, especially those with conditions like cleft lip and palate, short tongue, or those born prematurely before 34 weeks. Dr. Ho advised that mothers of babies with metabolic issues or those admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) should consult a pediatrician before breastfeeding.
Sunway Medical Centre, Malaysia’s largest private quaternary hospital, has been recognized in Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals 2024 ranking and leads the pediatric field in the Newsweek Asia Pacific Best Hospitals 2024 ranking.
