Having The Talk: The Role Of Family In Breastfeeding

Why is it that some women choose to breastfeed, while other opt for formula? A family’s role in the care and nurture of a baby can play a big part in that decision. Dr Preeti Gangan explains the importance of a family’s support and encouragement when it comes to nursing

Motherhood is a bumpy ride, no matter what way you look at it. Post-partum psychosis and depression exerts a lot of pressure on mothers and this increases the stress level impacting health. Many mothers get agitated and are unable to handle this change, blaming it on this postpartum depression.

Exhaustion, lack of maternity leave and affordable or accessible maternal care, and preoccupation with the demands of the child cover women in a heavy blanket of responsibility that is often difficult to escape.

They juggle between household chores, official work, preparing meals, baby sitting and other unpredictabilities, diminishing their will to breastfeed, forcing them to adopt formula. However, the lack of knowledge on the benefits of breastfeeding, family support and poor skills of time management, contribute to their choice to feed their child formula over breastmilk. Even if the hospital recommends formula, a family’s support can help a new mother take the breastfeeding decision. A mother should be encouraged to discuss with whoever they’re comfortable with, their desires and plans to breastfeed. Her partner and the baby’s grandparents also play critical support roles when it comes to breastfeeding, both with regard to assisting in decision making about how the baby is fed, as well as in creating a supportive and encouraging environment for a mother to breastfeed, after the baby is born.

Making motherhood an art Families can help a new mother master the art of motherhood and also inspire her to continue with her career. Here are certain tips for families to help mothers get through those early weeks with a new baby.