Much has always been said about benefits of breastfeeding for babies, but little has been said about the benefits of breastfeeding for the mother. Within this surprising practice, we do not know that it also favors women in many aspects.
From the first moment of the grip, some high levels of oxytocin. It is the so-called "love hormone" and is released every time the baby sucks on the nipple. Its sensation is pleasant and partly creates many more functions in the woman's body.
Benefits of breastfeeding for the mother
The bond that is created between mother and son is very specialFeeling his skin, how you feed him and even his own caresses when he can touch you is a sensation full of emotions. These feelings are further complemented by the release of hormones such as:
Oxytocin
This hormone creates a strong bond and attachment between mother and baby. It has various functions that also aid in a speedy recovery from childbirth. From the first minute you are already helping a better healing of the uterus and return it to its natural size.
Furthermore, reduces postpartum bleeding, since by causing suction this hormone helps to better eliminate lochia, which are the remains of blood and placenta that remain after childbirth. This data is important because with this function decreases the chances of anemia iron deficiency due to blood loss.
Oxytocin is the hormone of love and caress. Numerous studies have shown that keeping it in mind creates an antidepressant effect, lowering anxiety and depression, thanks to its well-being effect. In addition, it lowers basal, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and increases the pain threshold.
Prolactin
This hormone is responsible for milk production after the birth preparing the mother for breastfeeding. With prolactin present, the menstrual cycle in the puerperium phase is suspended.
The nice thing about having this hormone creates a sense of calm and positivity for the mother. It helps to have a relaxing effect in the night feedings for both the mother and the baby.
What more benefits do we find?
Breastfeeding can delay the menstrual period, thus the mother is not exposed to future pregnancies and as a consequence there is birth control. If you are breastfeeding on demand both day and night for at least six months you may menstruation has not started and as a consequence you are not ovulating, although it is not a reliable fact that a pregnancy can occur.
Breastfeeding in the long run is a great comfort for the mother. The first weeks after the baby is born are exhausting until you adjust to the feedings and their care. With breastfeeding there is a great resolution advantage, you can feed the baby anytime and almost anywhere. You do not have to heat the milk, it is always in the right measure, or prepare bottles where you have to be heating, disinfecting or preparing your mixture.
Benefits of breastfeeding in the long run
Scientific studies have already shown the benefits of breastfeeding. The mother may be more protected against breast, uterine and ovarian cancer. You also avoid suffering fewer urinary infections and having osteoporosis. Another type of disease that can be more protected is to suffer type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
The longer breastfeeding is maintained, the greater the benefits to the mother. It should be noted that prolonged breastfeeding can create attachment in children and that leads to fatigue in the mother, but for this you can read the best tips for successful breastfeeding.