I’m a working mother. Breastfeeding my baby is practically difficult when I need to work long hours. How important is breast milk for an infant’s development?
— Shireen Mandara, Bengaluru

Breastmilk is the best source of nutrition for infants for these reasons:

• It provides all the nutrients necessary for a new-born’s physical growth and development. It contains proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals in right proportions.
• Rich in antibodies, breast milk protects infants from infections and diseases. This is especially important in the early stages of life when an infant’s immune system is still developing. Antibodies an infant acquires through breastfeeding remain within her body until age 18.
• Breast milk is easier for infants to digest. This is highly beneficial for a new-born’s immature digestive system.
• Breastfeeding promotes healthy weight gain and prevents childhood obesity.
• Studies suggest that breastfeeding lowers the risk of developing chronic diseases, such as type-2 diabetes, obesity, and cancer in adulthood.

I am a new mom. Though many of my peers talk about how ‘satisfying’ it is to breastfeed, I don’t share this sentiment. On the contrary, it often makes me depressed. Is it normal to feel this way?
— Ramona Shetty, Hyderabad

The mental health of a mother during breastfeeding is critically important, not only for her own well-being but also for the health and development of her new-born.

Breastfeeding can be a profoundly rewarding experience, yet it can also cause emotional strain and stress. Recognising and accepting the cost-benefits of breastfeeding will help you remain positive.

Emotional benefits. Breastfeeding enhances mother and child bonding. Hormones such as oxytocin released during breastfeeding reduce stress and promote positivity.

Challenges and stress. For some mothers, breastfeeding can prompt frustration, inadequacy, and anxiety. Difficulties with latching, anxiety about milk supply, and physical discomfort often causes stress, even depression. If recurrent, consult a lactation expert.

Sleep deprivation. An infant’s breastfeeding schedule is irregular and therefore mothers experience disrupted sleep. Chronic sleep deprivation significantly affects a mother’s mental health, increasing the risk of post-partum depression. Therefore, it’s important to get enough sleep, which, in the initial weeks, means sleeping when the baby sleeps.

Social isolation. Breastfeeding mothers might feel socially isolated, intensifying feelings of loneliness and depression. During such times, it’s important to communicate with your partner about your emotions, making video calls to family and friends, joining a support group, and engaging in activities that can be enjoyed together with your baby.

Healthy lifestyle choices. Ingesting balanced meals, engaging in moderate exercise and getting adequate sleep improve mental health outcomes. Quiet walks or gentle exercise boosts mood and energy levels.

Set realistic expectations. It’s important for mothers to understand that every mother’s breastfeeding experience is unique. There will be ups and downs, therefore avoid setting unrealistic expectations.

I suspect my five-year old son is not eating enough. He is underweight for his age. Please advise.
— Jawed Ahmed, Mumbai

First, ensure he is getting adequate physical activity. Young children need at least two hours of free play daily in an open space. Next, create a positive meal-time environment. Avoid pressurising him to eat and make mealtimes enjoyable and relaxed. If he tends to eat smaller portions, ensure the meals are nutrient and calories-rich. Try also introducing him to stories about healthy eating to encourage good dietary habits.

After implementing these behaviour management strategies, if he still shows signs of poor physical growth, consult a development pediatrician.

(Dr. Neha Kukreja is consultant, developmental & behavioural paediatrician, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Bengaluru)