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When I was 24 and expecting my first child, I was determined to breastfeed, convinced it was the only option. I had done my homework, aware of the benefits, from antibodies to reduced ear infections. However, after my son was born, he struggled to latch, and when my milk came in, I became painfully engorged. Despite cracked and bleeding nipples, I pressed on, fearing I would be failing him if I stopped. I never received any reassurance that it was okay to quit if I needed to. Fast forward to today, and many new mothers are facing similar pressures during the pandemic.
There are numerous reasons why women experience difficulties with breastfeeding. A lack of support, insufficient access to resources, and inadequate paid leave are significant contributors. In the U.S., many mothers return to work sooner than in other countries, and workplaces often lack proper facilities for pumping. Plus, some moms may not want the hassle of transporting pumping equipment, which can be quite labor-intensive.
Research conducted during the pandemic has explored the transfer of COVID-19 antibodies through breast milk. Notably, Dr. Emily Carter and her team discovered that 88% of breast milk samples from women who had recovered from COVID-19 contained IgA antibodies, which can neutralize Sars-CoV-2 and potentially offer protection to babies. Coupled with the CDC’s recent recommendation for pregnant and breastfeeding women to get vaccinated, more mothers will likely have this protective “liquid gold” for their infants.
While this information is promising, I cannot help but think of my younger self, grappling with breastfeeding issues and postpartum anxiety. The knowledge that breast milk could provide some immunity would have been comforting, but I still would have appreciated someone telling me it was okay to choose a different path.
Although most healthcare providers promote breastfeeding, the societal pressure can feel overwhelming. When I faced challenges with breastfeeding, I was directed straight to a lactation consultant without ever being offered formula as an option. Now, I can only imagine how much harder it must be for new mothers facing breastfeeding struggles amid the pandemic, where health facilities may be understaffed and appointments delayed.
It’s essential to recognize that not every mother wants to or can breastfeed, and that decision should be respected. The usual societal expectations around breastfeeding are now compounded by the fear of COVID-19, leading to anxiety for many moms, especially those experiencing postpartum depression.
Thoughts swirl in the minds of mothers: If I don’t breastfeed and my baby gets sick, is it my fault? Should I have tried harder? Every drop of breast milk counts. Even though the risk of severe illness in children under 12 is lower than in adults, the desire to protect our children can lead to overwhelming stress.
As soon as we become parents, our focus often shifts entirely to our children, sometimes at the expense of our own well-being. With all the scientific information available regarding COVID-19, vaccines, and breastfeeding, more pressure is the last thing moms need. We are doing our best, and that’s what truly matters.
For additional insights, check out this blog post or consider exploring resources from Make a Mom for comprehensive information on home insemination. Another excellent resource for pregnancy-related topics is Science Daily.
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- Breastfeeding challenges during COVID-19
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In summary, the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the pressure on mothers to breastfeed, bringing added stress and anxiety. While new research highlights the potential benefits of breast milk in providing antibodies, the decision to breastfeed should always prioritize the mother’s well-being alongside the baby’s needs.