Mission Statement: To protect the right of the child
To foster an optimal start in life
And to encourage the mother's right to achieve it.
A lot is being said and done about this very emotive subject. Some argue that breast is best, while others argue that it doesn't matter, as long as they have given birth to healthy babies. The choice is theirs, and it should be respected.
For those who are still unsure about the advantages of breastfeeding, the following information highlights some of its benefits – both for the baby and the mother – based on recent research.
Apart from being the perfect food for the baby because it is so easily digested, breastmilk contains antibodies which protect babies from various allergies and infections such as gastroenteritis, as well as chest, urinary and ear infections. It also reduces the risk of diabetes and some childhood cancers, decreases the likelihood of obesity, high blood pressure and cardiac disease in later life, improves cognitive development, and works on mouth/jaw development.
The uterus contracts during breastfeeding, thus helping the mother's shape return to normal at a faster pace. Breastfeeding also reduces the chance of ovarian or breast cancer and helps bone density in the mother.
Breastfeeding saves money, since breastmilk is free. Furthermore, it saves time and is proven to be more convenient for busy mums, as it involves no heating or sterilising.
Apart from having the right to decide whether to breastfeed her infant or not, a mother also has the right to be given the correct information.
If you would like more information or require support to make an informed choice about your feeding method, the Association of Breastfeeding Counsellors (as a branch of Cana Movement) can help. Call our association on 9982 7170 or find us on Facebook.