Factors Associated With Cessation of Exclusive Breastfeeding

What Is Exclusive Breastfeeding?

Exclusive breastfeeding means that the baby is only fed breast milk (no water, formula, or other liquids or foods) for the first six months of life, and breast milk continues to be the main source of nutrition until the baby is one year or older.

What Could Be the Benefits of Exclusive Breastfeeding?

There are several benefits of exclusive breastfeeding for both the mother and the baby, including:

• Breast milk contains all the nutrients required for the baby's growth and development.

• Breastfeeding helps protect the baby against infections and illnesses, as breast milk contains antibodies that can fight off bacteria and viruses.

• Breastfeeding has been linked to lower sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) rates.

• Breastfeeding may reduce the risk of certain health problems later in life, such as obesity, diabetes, and allergies.

• Breastfeeding also benefits the mother, as it can help in their bond with the baby; their mental health and the likelihood of developing specific cancers are improved.

What Could Be the Factors Associated With Cessation of Breastfeeding?

There are multiple factors associated with the cessation of exclusive breastfeeding, including:

1. Maternal Factors: Maternal illness or medical conditions, lack of education or support, return to work, and lack of confidence in breastfeeding abilities can influence the decision to stop exclusive breastfeeding.

2. Infant Factors: Medical conditions, growth or developmental issues, and difficulty latching or feeding can impact the infant's ability to breastfeed exclusively.

3. Cultural Factors: Societal norms and values regarding breastfeeding, traditional beliefs about infant feeding practices, and lack of access to breastfeeding resources or education can affect the decision to stop exclusive breastfeeding.

4. Socioeconomic Factors: Poverty, lack of access to healthcare or nutritious foods, and the need for the mother to work can lead to early cessation of exclusive breastfeeding.

5. Marketing and Advertising of Breastmilk Substitutes: Aggressive advertising of infant formula can influence mothers to switch to formula rather than continuing exclusive breastfeeding.

6. Family and Social Support: The lack of support from family members or partners can affect a mother's decision to continue exclusive breastfeeding.

A combination of personal, cultural, and socioeconomic factors influence a mother's decision to stop exclusive breastfeeding. Therefore, it is important to provide access to education, support, and resources for mothers to continue exclusive breastfeeding as long as possible.

What Are the Recommendations Given by the WHO for Stopping Exclusive Breastfeeding?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that exclusive breastfeeding should continue for the first six months of life and that after six months until the infant is at least two years old, nursing should be continued together with the introduction of supplementary foods.

When the time comes to introduce complementary foods, the WHO recommends that breastfeeding should be continued alongside these foods until the child is at least two years or older because breast milk is a crucial source of nutrients and immune support. However, it is important to note that every child and every family is different, and some may need to adjust their breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices based on their individual needs and circumstances. It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for guidance on the best feeding practices for the child.

What One Should Be Mindful of While Stopping Breastfeeding?

When it comes to stopping breastfeeding, it is important to do it gradually to avoid discomfort and potential complications such as engorgement, blocked ducts, and infections. Here are some steps that can help:

1. Offer Solid Foods: Start introducing solid foods to the baby around six months of age. Begin with soft, easy-to-digest foods like cereal, pureed fruits, and vegetables.

2. Replace One Feeding at a Time: Over several weeks, replace one breastfeeding session at a time with a solid food meal or a bottle of pumped breast milk or formula. Choose the feeding that seems to be the least important to the baby to begin with.

3. Drop One Feeding Every Two to Three Days: Slowly drop one feeding every couple of days until they have eliminated all the feedings.

4. Gradually Reduce Pumping: To replace feedings, gradually reduce the time and number of pumping times each day.

5. Keep Baby Close: Continue to hold and cuddle the baby during feedings to maintain the closeness enjoyed while breastfeeding.

What Should Be Offered to the Baby to Balance the Nutrition?

During the transition phase from breast milk to solid food, it is important to ensure that they are getting all the necessary nutrients for growth and development. Here are some tips:

1. Offer a Variety of Foods: Introduce a variety of healthy foods to the baby's diet, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.

2. Avoid Added Sugars and Salt: Avoid giving baby foods that contain added sugars, salt, or artificial flavors and colors.

3. Include Iron-Rich Foods: Ensure the baby gets enough iron by including iron-rich foods like meat, beans, and leafy greens.

4. Consider a Multivitamin: Talk to the pediatrician about whether the baby may benefit from a multivitamin, especially if they are a picky eater or have special dietary needs.

5. Continue to Offer Breast Milk: If the mother wishes to continue offering breast milk, they can pump and store it for the baby, offer it in a cup or bottle, or offer it to complement their solid food meals.

Conclusion:

Overall, exclusive breastfeeding is important for the health and development of both the mother and the baby. Cessation of breastfeeding is associated with several factors. These include the mother's health, lifestyle, returning to work, the infant's health, and the infant's age. Poor maternal health, such as nutritional deficiencies, can lead to reduced milk production and early weaning. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and the use of certain medications, can also lead to reduced milk production. If a mother returns to work, they may not have the same amount of time to breastfeed, leading to early weaning. Infant health issues, such as allergies or problems with latching, can also lead to early weaning. Finally, as the infant grows older, the need for breast milk decreases, and the mother may choose to wean.