For the first time mothers, I am sure you must have heard the term “breastfeeding” but still you might not know the meaning of it. You might have read the word in some books but still you don’t know how to breastfeed.
There are three different types of breastfeeding which are the direct breastfeeding, the bottle feeding and the mixed feeding. Let us have a look at each of these types.
1. Direct breastfeeding
This is the best method of feeding for newborn babies. It is also called the colostrum feeding or the direct breastfeeding. In this method, the baby is fed directly through the mother’s breast without any assistance.
2. Bottle feeding
This is the second method of breastfeeding where the baby is fed with the help of a bottle. In this method, the mother needs to pump milk and then feed the baby with the bottle.
3. Mixed breastfeeding
This is the third method of breastfeeding. The mother feeds the baby with the help of both the breasts and the bottle.
Conclusion:
Now that you have a general idea of the types of breastfeeding, you will easily understand the meaning of each one. Now let us discuss the benefits of each type of breastfeeding.
Benefits of direct breastfeeding
There are a lot of benefits of the direct breastfeeding. First of all, the mother gets full nutrition, which is the most important thing for the baby. Secondly, the baby gets to know the taste of the breastmilk and they become familiar with the mother’s body.
Benefits of bottle feeding
In this method, the mother can control the amount of milk that is to be given to the baby. Also, the baby gets to know the taste of the breastmilk and it is easier to feed him or her when compared to the direct breastfeeding.
Benefits of mixed breastfeeding
In this method, the mother can decide which one she wants to give to the baby. If the mother has a very heavy milk flow, then she will use the bottle for feeding the baby. If the mother has a little milk flow, then she will feed the baby with the breast.
Conclusion:
The benefits of the breastfeeding are endless. It is very easy to feed a baby with a bottle, but the direct breastfeeding gives the most nutrients to the baby. If you are planning to breastfeed your baby, then make sure that you go for the direct breastfeeding as it will be the best choice for you.
