When we are expecting a baby, it is very natural for our thoughts to be consumed with the pregnancy, the birth, the anticipation of meeting this tiny person, and how we may change as a person and as a family. It’s possible and indeed likely that we will have been given some level of breastfeeding information in pregnancy, and whilst this is often extremely useful, it can also be so hard to think that far ahead, especially the first time around.
The mother experiences her little one’s first touch mostly through nursing. For every new mother, breastfeeding is one of the most emotional moments that she experiences. It is one of those natural phenomena of life that marks the sweet beginning of motherhood.
The breast milk that the little one receives in the initial few days, also known as colostrum, is quite essential for his/her growth and development. This perfectly meets your baby’s nutritional requirements. In fact, it also helps in developing the newborn’s digestive system in order to prepare itself to digest the breast milk.
One of the other reasons why a woman goes through an emotional rollercoaster is due to the chemical hormones produced during breastfeeding. The two major chemical hormones released during nursing are oxytocin and prolactin. Prolactin is responsible for the milk secretion and makes a mother feel sleepy and relaxed. On the other hand, oxytocin helps with the flow of the milk. And, it might help strengthen the bond between the new mom and the baby.
Also known as the ‘happy hormone’, oxytocin may cause the mom to feel a little euphoric. So, with all these chemical hormones flowing around, it doesn’t come as a surprise that the mom feels a wave of emotions. In a way, you can think that the mom is feeding her little one a dash of happiness with an awesome bonus of immunity. Since this is one of the first external contacts that a mommy shares with her little one, it helps her build a strong bond and connection with him/her.
Nothing makes a mother feel more happy and content than holding her newborn in her arms. And, caressing the baby as he/she consumes the milk is like a cherry on the cake. As humans, we are fortunate to feel and experience such an incredible natural phenomenon. It is a feeling so beautiful that it can’t be defined or even expressed in words. And, breastfeeding can have its own share of positive psychological influences in a new mother. She might feel a sense of confidence and courage never experienced before. After all, she knows full-well how she is not just shaping up the future of her little one, but also of the society. As she nurses her child, the mom sees him/her grow into a wiser and stronger person every day.
However, there is another side to this story too. While this experience is glorious and fascinating for most parts, there are some women who fall prey to a medical condition called postpartum dᴇprᴇssion. And, postpartum depression and breastfeeding are said to have a correlation. Apparently, depressed moms are more likely to be dissatisfied with breastfeeding.
And, might also face more breastfeeding issues. Since this condition can invoke negative emotions such as stress, anxiety, and depression, moms may show signs like crying, insomnia, loss of appetite, and mood swings. But, there is always a way to heal the soul. And, if you notice any of these signs, consult your doc immediately. He/she will be able to guide you better on how to deal with these issues.
Breastfeeding is the best way to familiarize yourself with the little one. And, it also helps you sail through motherhood, which can be pretty overwhelming otherwise. Moms develop an innate maternal instinct as soon as their babies arrive into the world. They immediately make a secret promise to their little ones, vowing to protect them with all their might until the last breath. We all know that the overwhelming emotion that motherhood brings is beyond comparison. So, don’t let anything worry you. Just focus on taking care of yourself and be your best version around the little one.
