Every year, new mothers make the conscious decision to breastfeed their babies. As of 2014, approximately 67.3 percent of mothers in the state of Alabama preferred to breastfeed instead of bottle feed (C, 2015). By definition, breastfeeding is known as the conventional method of which a mother utilizes the milk in her own breast to provide nutrition for her child. Breastfeeding affords a new mother the occasion to bond with her baby and strengthen their relationship. Although there are various controversies surrounding breastfeeding, the positive effects cannot be disregarded. Every mother, with accurate and concise teaching, as well as factual information provided by her nurse, has the ability to breastfeed. …show more content…
Breastfeeding excels in enhancing the bonding stage between mother and child all while decreasing their stress levels. The increased closeness provides both the mother and newborn with the opportunity to learn each other’s behavior cues and needs (Davidson, 2012). Breastfeeding improves a mother’s self-esteem and level of satisfaction because she is aware that she can produce the perfect food for her baby with her own body. Mothers who breastfeed may be more affectionate towards their child because of the prolactin and oxytocin released during feedings. Research has proven that breastfeeding hastens the post-partum process, and even decreases the chances of a woman developing post-partum depression or hemorrhage by controlling blood loss. Furthermore, breastfeeding stimulates physiological recovery from pregnancy, allowing mothers to refrain from agonizing over the pain of childbirth, and focusing more on making lasting memories with their babies. Breastfeeding promotes faster uterine involution, i.e., the uterus is physiological transformed from that of a pregnant woman to a non-pregnant woman (N, 2013). The tactile stimulation associated with closeness can communicate warmth, closeness and comfort, which aids in putting a newborn at ease while getting to know his or her