Dr Maneka Fernandes
Breast milk is often called ‘liquid gold’ because of its exceptional nutritional value and its protective properties for newborns. It is packed with antibodies, vitamins, and other essential nutrients that are crucial for a baby's growth and development. The term ‘liquid gold’ also highlights the precious and irreplaceable nature of breast milk, particularly the initial milk called colostrum, which is rich in nutrients and immune-boosting components.
SUPPORT MATTERS
It may take time to become used to breastfeeding if mothers are not guided. Many initially wonder if their baby is feeding well. Once mastered, it becomes the most natural and satisfying way to nourish a child. Conflicting advice from friends and relatives about diets can make it harder for mothers to make confident choices. Unfortunately, mothers are often sidelined, with focus diverted towards the baby, leaving her needs overlooked. Social support from family and healthcare providers is crucial.
BENEFITS FOR MOTHER & BABY
Breast milk is tailor-made for the baby, giving them all the nutrients needed in the first six months. It boosts their ability to fight illness and aids digestion. It reduces the risk of diarrhoea, allergies, and respiratory infections. Breastfeeding also lowers the mother's risk of breast and ovarian cancer, osteoporosis, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, burning about 500 calories a day. It is a great way to strengthen the mother-baby bond.
GETTING THE RIGHT LATCH
There are a few principles for achieving successful breastfeeding. Good position and latching must be attained. The mother should sit upright with proper back support. They can sit on a chair with feet resting on a stool to avoid backaches. The baby's head, shoulder, and buttocks should be in a straight line. The baby must be well supported with the mother’s forearm. The baby's abdomen should touch the mother's, and the mouth should face the breast.
For good latching, the baby's mouth should be wide open, covering most of the mother's areola, while the chin touches the breast and the lower lip is everted. If these principles are followed, the breastfeeding journey becomes easy and joyful, preventing problems of cracked and sore nipples.
The baby should feed for at least 20 to 30 minutes on each breast. If a baby feeds only for a few minutes on one side, they will still be hungry. The foremilk, rich in vitamins and antibodies, is watery and satisfies thirst. The later hindmilk is thick and rich in fats, which satisfies hunger.
BOOSTING MILK SUPPLY
Newborns will want to breastfeed frequently, at least 8 times a day. As they improve at feeding, they will need it less often. Mothers may express feeds if the baby is premature, unable to latch, if returning to work, or if milk supply needs boosting. Mothers should include a balanced variety of fruits, vegetables, carbohydrates, protein, and dairy. Limit caffeine to 300 mg a day and avoid alcohol.
Galactagogues are components that enhance breastmilk production. Fenugreek seeds as porridge with rice and jaggery increase breastmilk effectively. The mother should stay hydrated with at least four litres of water per day. Frequent night feeds also increase milk supply because prolactin, a hormone secreted at night, helps production.
Any pain or stress can reduce milk production, making family and friends important for support. All breastfeeding mothers face challenges stemming from physical, emotional, hormonal, or psychological aspects. It is our duty as a society to address these and help mothers in every way.
The WHO theme for World Breastfeeding Week 2026 is "Breastfeeding for a sustainable start in life: strengthen what works,” focusing on tracking progress, evaluating impact on nutrition, and scaling proven support systems.
(The author is a consultant paediatrician and neonatologist at Healthway Hospitals, Old Goa.)
