As a mother who has experienced the joys and challenges of breastfeeding four times, including recently with twins, I am constantly in awe of the incredible science behind this remarkable process.

Breastfeeding is a natural and innate ability of the female body, yet its intricacies and complexities are truly marvels of motherhood. From the production of milk in the mammary glands to the interplay of hormones that regulate milk supply, breastfeeding involves a fascinating interplay of physiological, anatomical, and hormonal factors.

In this blog post, we will explore the science behind breastfeeding, delving into the amazing processes that occur within a mother's body to nourish and nurture her baby.

We will also discuss the numerous benefits of breastfeeding for both the mother and the baby, as well as some of the challenges that mothers may encounter along their breastfeeding journey.

So, let's dive into the wondrous world of breastfeeding and uncover the science that makes it such a miraculous phenomenon.

Breastfeeding is the most popular way to feed and nourish an infant. Breastfeeding should begin within one hour after birth, and can occur up to 12 times per day in the first weeks of life.

Many infants are breastfed exclusively, receiving no other form of nutrition for the first six months of their lives.

Whether or not a woman chooses to breastfeed is a personal decision every new mother has to make for herself and her baby. However, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) does list several benefits for not only the newborn, but the mother as well.

Benefits of Breastfeeding

A mother’s first milk is called colostrum, and it’s referred to as “liquid gold” due to its deep yellow color. This thick type of milk is made during pregnancy and just after birth, and it is extremely rich in nutrients and antibodies that protect your newborn from infections.

Colostrum also helps a new infant’s digestive system to grow and function. As a baby grows, its mother’s milk changes, becoming mature milk within three to five days after birth. This milk consists of sufficient amounts of fat, sugar, water and protein. It is thinner than colostrum, but still packed with nutrients and antibodies.

Health benefits available to a breastfed infant comprise a lengthy list, including a lowered risk of:

Asthma
Childhood leukemia
Childhood obesity
Ear infections
Eczema
Type 2 diabetes
Diarrhea and vomiting
Lower respiratory infections
Disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract in premature babies
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

Although not quite as lengthy of a list, the mother is not without her own equally important benefits. Breastfeeding not only helps a mother to heal following childbirth, but leads to a lower risk of Type 2 diabetes, certain types of breast cancer and ovarian cancer. As a bonus, breastfeeding may help women lose weight. HHS states that “many women who breastfed their babies said it helped them get back to their pre-pregnancy weight more quickly,” however, experts are still researching the link between breastfeeding and weight loss.

But most importantly, HHS finds that breastfeeding can save lives. The governmental health department said research shows that if 90 percent of mothers breastfed their infants exclusively in their first six months of life, nearly 1,000 deaths among infants could be prevented each year. Additionally, breastfeeding is more cost-effective, more convenient, and keeps mom and baby close.

When Is Breastfeeding Not Beneficial?

Breastfeeding isn’t always the more beneficial choice. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) pointed out that in rare instances, human milk is not recommended for newborns.

These exceptional circumstances include when an infant is diagnosed with galactosemia (a rare genetic metabolic disorder that affects a person’s ability to metabolize — process — the sugar galactose present in many foods), and when the mother has certain infectious diseases, such as the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or tuberculosis, is using or dependent upon illegal drugs, or is taking prescribed cancer chemotherapy treatments or undergoing radiation therapies.

Breastfeeding Complications

New mothers should expect to have some discomfort, breast fullness or nipple tenderness as they begin breastfeeding their infant, especially if it is their first time nursing or they are first-time mothers. Although rare, it is also sometimes possible that a mother will produce too little milk. Frequent feedings, adequate rest, good nutrition and staying hydrated are all ways in which a mother can maintain a good milk supply.

Women can also take steps to alleviate discomfort and reduce the risk of complications when breastfeeding, by:

Alternating nursing positions to keep milk ducts emptying regularly
Allowing nipples to air dry after each feeding
Avoiding excessive use of soap on the breast and nipples
Wearing cotton bras and keeping breast pads as clean and dry as possible
Using lanolin on the nipples after feedings

Complications of breastfeeding can include:

ENGORGEMENT

When the milk ducts do not adequately empty during feedings, the breasts can become hard, painful, hot, and taut or shiny in appearance. Once the breasts are engorged, feeding can become painful and difficult, further exacerbating the problem.

THRUSH

Thrush is a common yeast infection that can be passed from the mother to the infant, or from the infant to the mother, during breastfeeding. This type of yeast infection (Candida albicans) thrives in warm, moist areas, which make the baby’s mouth and the mother’s nipples prime locations for its growth.

Symptoms of thrush in the mother may include deep-pink nipples that are tender and uncomfortable, especially during feedings. The infant may have white patches and increased redness in the mouth, diaper rash or a change in mood.

Antifungal medications can help to clear the infection.

PLUGGED DUCT

Tender spots or lumps in the breast are indicative of plugged milk ducts. When milk ducts become plugged, the milk is unable to be expressed freely. This condition can be uncomfortable or even painful, but it typically does not lead to more severe symptoms, such as fever, when treated properly with rest, moist heat, massage and pumping often in between feedings to completely empty the breast.

MASTITIS

Mastitis is a breast infection and one of the more serious breastfeeding complications. When a plugged duct or cracked nipple goes untreated, it can result in mastitis. This serious condition can also be caused by anemia, stress, or fatigue.

Symptoms come on much more suddenly than those associated with a plugged milk duct and typically include:

High fever
Flu-like muscle aches
Fatigue
Headache
Intense, localized pain
Red, hot, and swollen breast

Antibiotics may be a necessary part of treatment. However, it is important to note that the use of antibiotics can sometimes lead to thrush. Some medications, including antibiotics, may also be passed from the mother to the infant via breast milk. In my case, I used the Sunflower Lecithin to Loosen the existing fatty clogs and improve the milk flow. You can shop it from the link below on Amazon.

Breastfeeding has numerous benefits for both the mother and the baby, supporting their health and well-being. However, breastfeeding can also present challenges, and seeking support is important for overcoming these challenges.

As we celebrate the marvels of motherhood, let us continue to appreciate the incredible science behind breastfeeding and support and empower mothers in their breastfeeding journey. Kindly feel free to share your breastfeeding journey with me in the comment box below.

The Marvels of Motherhood: Exploring the Science Behind Breastfeeding