Breastfeeding for more than a year is called extended breastfeeding. In many countries, it is considered normal, healthy and popular. Extended breastfeeding: Is it for you? There are significant benefits of prolonged breastfeeding. So don't let other people pressure you. Instead, consider the pros and cons. Then do what feels right for you.
What are the advantages of breastfeeding prolonged?
Babies take advantage of precious nutrients from breast milk
Although your baby can now get most of the nutrition from food, breast milk still provides calories, growth hormones, vitamins and enzymes. Studies show that toddlers who are still breastfed are ill less than their peers.
When your baby is sick, breast milk may be the only thing your baby will eat. This helps the baby stay hydrated and strengthens the immune system.
Spiritual dose for both mother and child
As your baby gets a little older, breastfeeding can be an important source of reassurance and emotional support. The strong connection as a baby promotes independence, not making the child too dependent or clingy, as many people think.
If you travel and spend the night in unfamiliar places, feeling safe while breastfeeding may be the best way to reduce your baby's fears and make your baby feel more secure.
Benefits for breastfeeding mothers
Breastfeeding is also good for your health. When compared to women who never breastfeed, women who breastfeed have lower rates of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure.
With regular breastfeeding, you can prevent pregnancy. But remember that breastfeeding is not an effective form of birth control. Especially after you've started solids and probably lessen your baby.
Continued breastfeeding can help control your weight. Some studies show that breastfeeding in combination with a healthy diet and exercise can help you lose weight.
You can choose when to wean your baby when he is ready. This will make your baby feel more natural and less sudden than stopping suddenly.
What are the disadvantages of prolonged breastfeeding?
Many people may make rude comments or criticisms when you give babies. Use extra caution when breastfeeding in public to avoid being looked at. This can be difficult if your toddler regularly reveals your shirt in public and asks for money quickly.
Some say that it is difficult to wean a baby after the first year. Many mothers worry about trying to wean a stubborn 2 year old baby. Or allow a toddler to follow his or her own schedule. Of course, you can wean your baby at any time. In the beginning, you may have to distract your baby with foods, drinks and other activities when your baby wants to suckle.
Babies may want to snuggle into their nipples when they are bored. Or simply feel like it's the only way to get your attention.
If you choose to breastfeed for a long time, what should a mother do?
Some mothers like to breastfeed at certain times of the day. Like in the morning, before nap or before going to bed. And give toddlers a cup to drink at meals and snacks.
If you don't care what people think or say, have some flexible responses ready when someone asks you: "Is your baby still breastfed?" Sometimes a "yes" word is simply the best chat block button.
Or, the next time you breastfeed and someone asks, "Have you ever stopped breastfeeding?". You can say, "Yes, in about 10 minutes."
Teach your baby how to show off when he wants to pee. Suddenly when your baby wants to be in the middle of a restaurant, no one will notice. Take care of yourself
Eat a diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, protein, whole grains, and calcium-rich foods. To stay hydrated, drink a glass of water before you breastfeed.
After the first year, your baby needs to eat more nutritious, balanced meals so that he or she can continue to grow at a healthy rate. And if your toddler is going through anorexia stage, don't worry - he'll get many precious nutrients from breast milk.
If you are pregnant next baby
Are you pregnant and want to continue breastfeeding? Be prepared for your milk supply to drop as hormone levels change. You will have less milk as your body begins to divert resources to the growing fetus and the taste of the milk may change.
However, many women still have success in giving birth to babies and toddlers while pregnant. Just invest more time and energy! So you will need to ensure a nutritious food regimen and drink enough water.
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