Psychological concerns can create serious obstacles in the breastfeeding process. Stress and worries experienced by mothers in this process can negatively affect milk production. Obstetrician Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kazibe Koyuncu Demir said, “All kinds of support provided to mothers is very important in reducing their anxiety and continuing breastfeeding successfully.”
The breastfeeding process is vital for both mothers and babies. Stating that breastfeeding should be encouraged and mothers should be given the necessary support, Medicana Kadıköy Hospital Gynecology and Obstetrics Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kazibe Koyuncu Demir said, “As a society, we should support mothers in breastfeeding. This support should be provided not only by health professionals but also by families, workplaces and social environment.”
“The self-confidence of the mother who receives correct information about breastfeeding increases”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Demir underlined that mothers should be informed correctly about breastfeeding: “Mothers who cannot breastfeed due to psychological concerns can carry out this process more successfully when the necessary support is provided. Therefore, psychological support, information and education activities for mothers should be increased. As a society, we should provide all kinds of support to mothers and spread the importance of breastfeeding. Psychological support for mothers in the postpartum period can reduce their anxiety levels. This support can be provided by a professional psychologist or therapist. Having the right information about breastfeeding increases mothers' self-confidence. Trainings in hospitals and health centers play an important role in this regard. Support from family members and the immediate environment is effective in reducing mothers' anxiety. It is especially important that spouses are supportive and understanding in this process.”
Drawing attention to some common problems faced by mothers during breastfeeding, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kazibe Koyuncu Demir listed the solutions to these problems as follows
Nipple problems: “Cracks, wounds and pain can make the breastfeeding process difficult. In this case, correct breastfeeding techniques and appropriate creams should be used.”
Insufficient milk: “Some mothers may think that their milk is not enough. In this case, milk production can be encouraged by increasing the frequency of sucking and proper nutrition.”
Sucking problems in the baby: “Babies sometimes refuse to suck or do not suck properly. In this case, it is helpful to get support from a lactation consultant.”
Breast swelling and infection: “Breast swelling and infections such as mastitis can make breastfeeding difficult. In this case, hot compresses and antibiotics may be required on doctor's advice.”
Breastfeeding mothers have a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer
Referring to the positive effects of breastfeeding on baby development, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kazibe Koyuncu Demir said, “Breast milk strengthens the baby's immune system and protects it from diseases. Breast milk contains all the nutrients necessary for the growth and development of babies. Breast milk alone is sufficient in the first six months. There is no need to give the baby any other food during this period. Breastfeeding is vital for the healthy growth and development of babies.”
Emphasizing that breastfeeding has many benefits for mothers, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Demir said, “Breastfeeding helps mothers recover faster in the postpartum period. In addition, it has been proven by scientific studies that the risk of breast and ovarian cancer is reduced in breastfeeding mothers and postpartum depression is less common.”
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