Nature's First Immunization
/“We live in a society where a mother catches less hell for giving her toddler a coke that she does for giving her toddler breast milk.” –Deanna Decker
Before we dig deep into the topic of breastfeeding, we want to disclaim that the purpose of this blog is not to shame women who choose not to breastfeed or are unable to breastfeed. Instead, our goal is to respectfully inform all women on the realities of breastfeeding by bringing forth affirming content!
Our culture in the United States has unfortunately created the notion that breastfeeding is a difficult and taxing task. Women feel the need to be tucked away in bathrooms or covered with large blankets while providing their child nourishment as nature first intended it. Formula companies heavily advertise in the media, and bulk sample packets are readily given to new mothers after hospital deliveries just in case. And although breastfeeding can already be very overwhelming for new mothers, these tactics can leave mothers feeling even more conflicted with their decision to breastfeed.
What is really best for my child?
The World Health Organization (WHO), “recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life” and further states that supplemental feedings should extend until 2 years of age. However, it has been found that globally only less than 40% of children under the age of 6 months are actually exclusively breastfed. Why is this so?
Besides the overall anxiety, frustration and unfortunate public embarrassment that many mothers feel upon breastfeeding, there are other reasons why women may choose to cease breastfeeding such as:
-poor latching by the baby
-clogged milk ducts
-insufficient glandular tissue
-cracked and sore nipples
-decreased time commitment
-decreased overall support via family and primary care provider(s)
New mothers often are also often not educated on just how VALUABLE breast milk is for their child. Let’s dig deeper into why the advantages may outweigh the cons with these top 5 advantages:
1. Breast milk helps to build your child’s immunity from the start by being rich in natural antibodies
2. Breast milk is easily digestible (studies have found that formula-fed babies are 17x more likely to demonstrate gastrointestinal issues as compared to those who are breastfed)
3. Breastfeeding allows mother and baby to form a special bond
4. Breast milk contains the correct amount of fatty-acids and sugars necessary for development
5. Studies show breastfed babies cry less (yes!)
6. And many more!
We want to challenge the cultural perceptions of breastfeeding, offer supportive options for women who are facing challenges and bring forth empowerment!
“Breastfeeding reminds us of the universal truth of abundance; the more we give out, the more we are filled up, and that divine nourishment - the source from which we all draw - is, like a mother's breast, ever full and ever flowing.” -Sarah Buckley
Seeking out a compatible lactation consultant to support you on your breastfeeding journey is a well-known and holistic option. However, many new mothers don’t know that chiropractic care is just as valuable of an option, which can help both mother and baby enjoy a successful breastfeeding relationship! A chiropractor will assess both mother and baby to ensure properly functioning nervous systems, structures, and overall health and wellness by removing vertebral subluxations. Here is what we’ve seen:
Chiropractic for Baby- Birth trauma can affect the baby’s ability to successfully breastfeed due to misalignments in their skull, neck, and jaw. Birth trauma to the upper neck region, that unfortunately too many newborns encounter through even the most natural of birth processes, can also result in sluggish tendencies, colic, improper digestion, etc. that can result in decreased interest in breastfeeding. By getting your child checked by a chiropractor, correction of these misalignments (aka removal of subluxations) will allow for a child to more efficiently feed at the breast.
Chiropractic for Mother- Post pregnancy and birth, women face increased stress adjusting to this amazing, but new, experience of becoming a mother. Mothers may have their own misalignments resulting in a lack of milk supply, improper letdown and decreased physical health. Mental stress can also play a role in inadequate milk production! Chiropractic care can increase a mother’s quality of life by finding and correcting vertebral subluxations, maximizing overall nervous system health, and decreasing stress through holistic support.
Are you looking for a more successful and empowered breastfeeding experience?
Have you and your child checked by a chiropractor today!
