Training of Roma Health Mediators in Reproductive Health

Trainer document
BENEFITS OF BREASTFEEDING
For the Baby:
• Breast milk is the best and most natural food for a baby. Breast milk:
o Has a better balance of what the baby needs than does any other milk, whether
fresh, canned, or powdered.
o Changes as the baby matures to meet the baby’s complete nutritional needs and
to nourish him/her properly.
o Is easy to digest.
o Is clean. When other foods are given, especially by bottle feeding, it is very hard
to keep bottles and other utensils clean enough to prevent the baby from getting
diarrhea and other sicknesses.
o Is always at the right temperature.
o Contains substances (antibodies) which protect the baby against certain illnesses
and infections (diarrhea and respiratory infections), especially during the first
six months.
• Infants who are breastfed are more healthy than those who receive artificial milk.
• During breastfeeding, the baby feels warm and secure and a bond of love is formed
with the mother.
• Suckling helps the jaws and tooth development of the baby.
For the Mother:
• Suckling of the nipples by the baby helps the mother's uterus to contract and to come
to its normal shape and size after delivery.
• Breastfeeding:
o Reduces the bleeding after delivery due to proper uterine contraction.
o Helps the mother to lose the extra fat put on during pregnancy.
o Makes the mother feel emotionally satisfied and her self-image is enhanced. A
bond of love is formed with the baby.
o Is convenient as breast milk is immediately available at the right temperature and
is free of cost.
o Protects the mother from becoming pregnant soon.
o Protects mothers from breasts and ovarian cancers, and from osteoporosis.
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RFHI/JSI Romania Training of RHMs in Reproductive Health Session 9: Breastfeeding