August Breastfeeding Awareness Month: Why I chose to breastfeed my babies

Photo courtesy of Dr. Beverly Lee

As a first-time mother and pediatrician, I knew I wanted to give breastfeeding my best effort because of the well-known benefits for mother and baby. Admittedly, my breastfeeding journey was not always easy. Like many new mothers, I initially struggled with engorgement, latch issues and diet limitations. However, every time I saw my son drink my breast milk and receive the nutrients that I provided, I knew all of the hard work pumping in between patients was worth it. After only a few months, we entered into a sweet rhythm, and breastfeeding my son after a long day at work was something I really looked forward to. Our breastfeeding journey lasted 12 months, and I am so thankful I was able to give him a great start in life. 

This past April, my husband and I welcomed our second child at Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women. With my second son, I knew I wanted to establish the same breastfeeding relationship, but I felt even more motivation to breastfeed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Being pregnant and working in healthcare during this pandemic has been extremely challenging. There is always a fear that you will bring home the virus to your little ones who are not able to be vaccinated yet. After speaking to my OB and researching the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine in pregnancy, I received both doses during my pregnancy. I am grateful my infant is able to get some protection by drinking my antibody-rich breastmilk, and this provides reassurance to me as his mother.

Human breast milk is naturally designed to contain all the essential nutrients an infant needs to grow and develop. The health benefits of breastmilk are long-lasting. They begin in infancy and extend throughout adulthood. Significant evidence shows breast milk reduces the risk of respiratory illnesses, ear infections, gastrointestinal tract illnesses, SIDS, allergies, obesity, diabetes and certain childhood cancers.

Besides the health benefits for newborns, breastfeeding provides many benefits for the mother, too. In addition to deepening the bond between mother and child, breastfeeding can decrease the amount of maternal bleeding after birth and can help a new mother lose pregnancy weight naturally. Studies also show breastmilk can reduce the rates of high blood pressure, diabetes and breast and ovarian cancers.

When new mothers bring their infants in for their baby’s routine wellness checkups, I help to educate and encourage them on successful breastfeeding practices, and let them know, it’s okay if they encounter challenges along the way. Breastfeeding is a steep learning curve, and the early days can often be the hardest. It may not come “naturally” at the beginning, but don’t be discouraged. As a pediatrician, my goal is to support mothers and their breastfeeding goals, and to walk alongside them during this new journey.

After I gave birth to my sons at Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women, I was fortunate enough to receive breastfeeding and lactation support during my hospital stay. Designated as a Baby Friendly Hospital, the Pavilion for Women offers a number of resources for nursing mothers, including a virtual breastfeeding support group for anyone, no matter where they delivered, to share their nursing experiences with others. Regardless of where you deliver your newborn, it is always a good idea to request a lactation consultant during your hospital stay and reach out to other fellow moms in your community. They will have great stories and tips to share with you that will help you in your breastfeeding journey with your new baby.

Breastfeeding is one of the most sacrificial yet rewarding aspects of motherhood. It’s a commitment that requires a lot from a mother, including her energy, time, and dietary changes. Yet, it is also a unique and beautiful experience to bond with your baby in a special way and provide all the nourishment your infant needs. If you are vaccinated against COVID, your breastmilk also offers an invaluable form of protection for your baby. I know not every mother is able to breastfeed, but it is definitely worth the effort to try.

Click here for information on breastfeeding and lactation support services at the Pavilion for Women, including how to donate excess breast milk to support critically ill babies in the Newborn Center.