LAM, or the breastfeeding method of birth control, has certain advantages for both the mother and the child who is being suckled. It increases the bond between mother and child, because of the close contact.
Breastfeeding is healthier for the baby. Antibodies from the mother’s milk are given to the child, which helps protect against illness. Babies who are breastfed are less likely to get sick, and if they do, they will have less severe symptoms. Some of the childhood illnesses that breastfeeding protects against are ear infections, respiratory ailments (including asthma), allergies, intestinal disorders, colds, viruses, many infections, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, certain childhood cancers, meningitis, and pneumonia. Breastfeeding also offers long-term support for prevention of Crohn’s, colitis, diabetes, and breast cancer.
Breastfeeding can also help a child by preventing exposure to infection and viruses found in water, other milk, and from improperly sanitized bottles.
Breastfeeding is healthy for the mother. It releases oxytocin, a hormone that helps the uterus and the body return a not-pregnant state. Often, mothers who don’t breastfeed have to be given this hormone intravenously. Breastfeeding also helps new mothers lose the birth weight, because breastfeeding uses 200 to 500 calories a day. Studies have shown that breastfeeding can also protect the mother against certain types of cancer later in life.
Breastfeeding is free, and natural. You don’t need any special equipment or drugs. If you have difficulty breastfeeding, you can consult a lactation expert.
One of the disadvantages of the LAM method is that you can only use it for six months after you give birth.
Another disadvantage of the LAM method is that it can be difficult to only breastfeed your child, because of time constraints. Be aware that you have a right to breastfeed in public, and that often, you have a right to ask for a private place to breastfeed if you are uncomfortable. If you are on maternity leave for the six months following the birth, you will not have as many other commitments that will detract from your ability to make the regular feeding times.
LAM provides no protection from sexually transmitted diseases or infections. If you learn from this article, might as well read how to increase breast milk to acquire more tips.
| « Advantages and Disadvantages of Condoms | Advantages and Disadvantages of IUDs » |
Leave A Comment