by Dr. Nataliya Skuridina, FNHA Senior Medical Officer
World breastfeeding week (WBW) is celebrated in many places around the world the first week of August. However, in Canada and many other countries we celebrate it the first week of October. Why do we celebrate in October? October, the tenth month of the year, was chosen because it symbolizes the first week of a baby’s life (after nine months of pregnancy) when a baby starts to breastfeed. This year it is October 1-7th.
What I’ve learned in my experience as a pediatrician, is that for the first six months of life, babies should be exclusively breastfed. In addition to being the most natural thing to do, breastfeeding is recommended as a way to limit childhood illness and early death. Breastfeeding, where possible, can be considered the parent’s gift to give the child “the breast start” possible, that is, the ideal nourishment breastfeeding provides.
Breastfed babies smell lovely; they are stronger, more secure and less susceptible to sickness. Baby and mother bond through this ritual. Once you get the hang of it, breastfeeding is also easy for most mothers – there are no bottles to wash, no messes to clean. And who wants to get up from a warm bed in the middle of the night or on a cold winter morning? With breastfeeding, the food is ready when and where the baby needs it! Breastmilk is ideal food that has all the nutrients your child needs, in addition to being the basic nurturing and nourishing experience your child needs.
Breastfeeding is your first parental gift to your baby at the beginning of his or her life journey. It teaches you the patience and dedication that you will require for many years to come and helps you and your child to bond. It is perhaps the easiest job you will do as a parent, and its effects will go a long way for both of you. Breastfeeding is good for the new mother as well and it burns calories!
These financial, health and bonding benefits are wonderful, but perhaps the most important aspect of breastfeeding is the fact that the mother is putting her baby’s needs firs. It is a huge commitment, and I’d like to thank all the fathers and other family and community members who support a new mother with this. Their recognition of the importance of the mother’s gift of breastfeeding can make the breastfeeding sacrifice so much more enjoyable! When you know that you are supported by other adults, it is so much easier to get through tough times and exhaustion!
Finally, I found a fun breastfeeding video online sung to the tune of the pop song "All About That Bass," but the words are "all about that breast" (breastfeeding). It is free access to all the nutrition that Whole Foods could find!" Watch it here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=miPB9R5pdB4
Breastfeeding is Creator’s gift to mothers and babies. Appreciate this gift and persevere to continue the tradition. Families and family members, please, support the women who breastfeed! Spread the word!
Happy Canadian Breastfeeding Week from the Office of the Chief Medical Officer at the First Nations Health Authority.
If you have questions or would like more information about breastfeeding, please connect with:
- • Your local community health nurse or primary care provider
- • HealthLink BC’s 8-1-1, toll free telephone line to talk to nurses, pharmacists, dietitians & health navigators
- • Creator’s Gift to Mothers Video shared by Shibogama First Nations Council
- • Breastfeeding Information for Indigenous Families Website & Resources
- • Healthy Families BC’s Website & Resources
• La Leche League Canada
