As we have learned from EDUC6500 and as we continue to learn in EDUC6160 that establishing and maintaining nurturing relationships from birth is extremely beneficial and has lasting ramifications socially and emotionally. Scientists in the early childhood field such as Bronfenbrenner, Ainsworth, and Bowlby have proven that this early bond or attachment allows the child to engage in positive relationships with their peers and adults.
Another form of bonding which has substantial benefits is breastfeeding. Breastfeeding affects a child’s development by adding nutritional value. Breastfeeding allows the newborn to get milk directly from his/her mother. This human milk provides the appropriate nutrients needed for the infant to survive and grow. If the development of the infant is unhealthy, it causes greater complications with their physical and cognitive growth and development. Breast milk not only provides opportunity for the infant and mother to bond, but it also provides numerous health benefits for both the mother and infant. I think that this simple act has such a great impact on both the mother and child. Therefore, if circumstances allow every mother should provide this amazing gift to their infant.
In this article, Cultural beliefs that may discourage breastfeeding among Lebanese
Women published by The International Breastfeeding Journal researchers found that Lebanese women believed that nursing their infant provided harm to their infant. Therefore, all of these beliefs caused a decline in women breastfeeding in Lebanon. The study was done with healthy, first time mothers. Here are some of the beliefs about breastfeeding mentioned:
Several mothers called the hotline for assistance to figure out whether their milk was "good" or "bad". Bad milk could be milk that was not nutritionally adequate for an infant's growth, or in the extreme cases, it could potentially "poison" the baby. Women asked about indications that would allow them to determine if their milk was good or bad, often stating that someone (usually a family member), had told them that their milk must be bad because the baby was fussy, not lasting long enough between feeds, not sleeping well or not growing adequately.
A common belief was that maternal abdominal pain could be transmitted to the infant through the breast milk and result in colic. Mothers were especially concerned about transferring their abdominal cramps to their infants if the infants were fussy.
Although most concerns were related to the mother harming her infant by having insufficient or poor quality milk, in some instances, there was some concern that the infant could harm the mother when breastfeeding. For instance, some women expressed the belief that if the baby burped while breastfeeding the mother would develop a breast infection.
This is just a few of the beliefs that Lebanese women have become to believed. Some have been passed down from generations. It is obvious that despite the common knowledge that several countries have in regards to breastfeeding, there are still some who have not received the pertinent information on breastfeeding. Unfortunately, this misinformation has an ultimate affect on the development of the child.
http://www.internationalbreastfeedingjournal.com/content/pdf/1746-4358-4-12.pdf
I am sad to read that Lebanon women feel their breastmilk would be bad and harm their baby. It is distrubing to read that they think their baby may harm them during nursing. It is very important to be informed to make the best decision for their child. A mother thinking that she may hurt her baby affects the mental health of the mother. If she feels guilty about her own body producing milk that would hurt her baby, she may not lose more confidence in her parenting skills and feel she can not do anything correctly. It is imperative that families have correct information to do what is best for their child without guilt. The mother's well-being is equally as important as the baby's well-being. Thank you for the information.
ReplyDeleteI am a true believer that breastfeeding is best. I am not a pusher of it by any means(meaning I still think it is a woman's choice). I breastfed all four of my children and I believe it not only made them healthier, but it helped us form a very strong bond right from the start. I would definitely recommend it to anyone. I would at least encourage them to try it. I find it disheartening that these Lebanon women have not been given the correct information about breastfeeding. The concept that breastfeeding could actually harm a baby is inconceivable to me. I know that my pediatrician and obgyn recommended breastfeeding and it is sad that they don't have this kind of support in Lebanon. Thank you for your research and your insight on this post.
ReplyDeleteYes, I agree it is the right of the mother to decide whether or not she will breast feed. However, exposure to the correct information and breast feeding support groups such as Leche League and lactation specialists are vital as they can provide the mother with the appropriate information, which will allow them to make informed decisions. Unfortunately, the woman of Lebanon do not have this local support system. They can only make decisions off of misconceptions.
DeleteThank you for your post. I too researched breastfeeding because of my strong belief that it is the best nourishment there is for infants. My experience with breastfeeding is that it is not as natural as one might think; in fact it is something that you need to learn to do as a mother and need support in order to continue doing.
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