A lot is being said about breastfeeding; some argue that breast is best, others say it doesn’t matter that much.

Looking back in history, mothers were bound by their biology to nurture their offspring, but today they have a choice to make. Formula milk seems to have offered a far more easy and attractive option. Everybody has heard about the benefits of breastfeeding. It is the perfect food for the baby since it is easily digested, contains antibodies which protect babies from various infections and allergies, enhances mouth development and enables brain development.

It is also the best choice for a mother who wants her uterus and her figure to return to how it was before pregnancy at a faster pace. Breastfeeding also reduces the chance of the mother having ovarian or breast cancer and helps bone density.

Breastfeeding also saves money (breast milk is free) and time and is very convenient (no heating or sterilising).

What about the bond between the mother and baby? What is more loveable and human than seeing a mother breastfeed her child? So why should not we give humans’ milk to humans and leave the cows’ milk to cows?

Mothers who opt not to breastfeed lack knowledge and professional support when needed. In order to enable them to make an informed choice, apart from browsing on the internet to see what organisations like the WHO, UNICEF or IBFAN (International Baby Food Action Network) have to say about breastfeeding, mothers-to-be can get first-hand information by attending antenatal breastfeeding classes, together with their families.

The Association of Breastfeeding Counsellors – a branch of the Cana Movement – offers such services. I can be contacted on 9983 7170 or charmainegalea@gmail.com.