05 August 2021

Early Initiation of Breastfeeding (EIB)

Early Initiation of Breastfeeding (EIB) is the process of allowing the baby to breastfeed immediately within the first hour after birth

The baby is placed on the mother's chest so that there is skin contact between the baby and the mother's skin, then the baby will react on its own.

Benefits of IMD

Early initiation of breastfeeding is beneficial for mother and baby both physiologically and psychologically, namely as follows:

1. Mother

Touching and sucking on the mother's breasts encourages the release of oxytocin. Oxytocin causes contractions in the uterus, thereby helping expulsion of the placenta and preventing bleeding.

Oxytocin also stimulates other hormones that make mothers feel safe and comfortable, so that breast milk comes out smoothly.

2. Baby

Touching the mother provides warmth and calm so that the baby's breathing and heart rate become regular. Babies receive colostrom which contains antibodies and is the first immunization. In addition, colostrom also contains growth factors that help the baby's intestines function effectively, so that microorganisms and other allergy causes are less likely to occur.

WHO / UNICEF recommends that IMD in the first hour of birth, breastfeed exclusively for 6 months followed by complementary foods until the age of 2 years.

The Conference on Children's Rights recognizes that every child has the right to live and survive and develop after birth. Women have the right to know and receive the support necessary to undertake appropriate Early Breastfeeding Initiation.

Reviewed by: dr . Innosensius Ibnu Ishwara, M.K.K.

Source : Mayapada Hospital Health Article

Picture : freepik.com/sutlafk