Breastfeeding appears to be a hotly debated subject with the pro side just as vehement as the con side and each group somehow giving the impression, that breastfeeding an infant is a radical act. 

I have difficulty recognizing breastfeeding as “radical” just like I have some trouble understanding why a lactation expert is needed.  In my opinion breastfeeding is a bodily function that happens in response to specific stimuli and does not require conscious thoughts.    However, given that women, at least in our culture, seem to have forgotten something about how marvelously well their bodies are suited for child birth and lactation I’m heartened to know that lactation specialist exist.  I’m also delighted to be part of a child birth education group that teaches HypnoBirthing® the Mongan Method to expecting mothers and I happily embrace anybody who is willing to support pregnant women.

I also find it comforting that scientist continue to study mothers and their babies.

A recent study published in the American Journal of Pediatrics March 2, 2009, entitled:  “Does Breastfeeding Reduce the Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome?”  examined the association between sudden infant death (SIDS) and method of infant feeding.  It was discovered that babies who aren’t breastfed are twice as likely to die of SIDS.  The study included 333 cases of SIDS and 998 age-matched controls in Germany, from 1998-2001.  The researches controlled for various factors and suggested a mechanism which could explain a causal relationship between breastfeeding and SIDS prevention.

Most infants who die from SIDS are between 2 and 4 months old.  At this age, a maternal acquired immunoglobulin G is low and the infant has not yet begun to produce large amounts of its own immunoglobulin.  Breast milk contains immunoglobulin and cytokines, which may help stave off infections which are believed to contribute to SIDS.  It has also been shown that breastfed infants are more easily aroused than formula fed babies, another mechanism which could help prevent SIDS.

After the age of 4 months, infants are at a lower risk for SIDS and the older they get, the more their risk declines.  Consequently the researchers recommend that all babies be breastfed until six months of age at a minimum.

From the perspective of a HypnoBirthing Childbirth Educator this study confirms what we already know namely that nature’s way is the best.  I sincerely wish that all babies will be born free from intervention and that they will be fed the way nature intended.