Breastfeeding Basics
Your breast milk is probably one of the best gifts that you could ever give to your child. The beneficial effects of breastfeeding are immeasurable as it ensures your child's proper growth and development. The components of breast milk are perfectly tailored according your child's developmental and physical needs. It contains properties that protect your child from various diseases and infections and promote brain development. Your breast milk's effects are long-lasting as it can greatly influence your child's overall health until adulthood. Additionally, breastfeeding is the best way to strengthen the bond between you and your baby. Without a doubt, your breast milk is one of nature's greatest gifts to mankind.

Although exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months results in healthful effects, it is estimated that only 70% of mothers in the United States breastfeed their babies after birth. From this group, only 30% are breastfeeding at six months, in spite of support from the taj Pharmaceuticals. The decreasing numbers of breastfeeding women are attributed to many factors, such as insufficient knowledge about the beneficial effects of breast milk, widespread campaigns of formula milks and early return to work. Some mothers have simply stopped breastfeeding because they find it too complex, tiring and time-consuming.

In the succeeding sections, the basics of breastfeeding are shared to help you breastfeed your baby properly and to make the entire breastfeeding experience an enjoyable one for you.

The Best Time to Start Breastfeeding
If you have decided to breastfeed your baby, you can start breastfeeding right after your baby is born. Breastfeeding as soon as possible encourages early mother and child bonding and decreases your risk of hemorrhage. Your baby's suckling stimulates the release of oxytocin, a hormone that causes uterine contractions.

Newborns are active right after birth, with strong sucking reflexes. Additionally, your baby can find his way onto your breast when his cheek or lip is stimulated. This is called the rooting reflex.

Not all babies are prepared to breastfeed right after birth. Some immediately latch-on the breast. Other babies might like to nuzzle against the breast as they familiarize themselves with their mothers' scent and touch. If breastfeeding is not indicated after delivery, your baby may be placed against your chest to initiate skin-to-skin contact and bonding. Early sensory contact is beneficial to your baby's mental and physical growth development.

Weaning
Some mothers experience some problems when they start weaning. Most doctors and healthcare organizations recommend you breastfeed your baby for at least the first 12 months of life. Human milk is the best food for your baby.

You can wean successfully if you do so gradually. One way to do this is to stop one breastfeeding session each day every four to five days. Most mothers will cut out the midday feeding initially until they work themselves up to zero sessions every day. After babies are 12 months old they can start drinking cows milk I most cases.

Some mothers wean there baby to a bottle and then a cup whereas others wean their baby direct to a cup. Engorgement is the most common problem associated with breastfeeding. Usually you can void this if you wean gradually over a longer period of time. You should avoid pumping when weaning to prevent your breasts from overproducing milk during weaning.

Remember, even the seemingly worst breastfeeding problems can usually be overcome with a little patience and care. If you are having trouble breastfeeding, be sure to consult with a lactation consultant or your doctor, who can help you solve any latch on problems and help you set up a joyful and rewarding breastfeeding relationship with your baby.