Building a Bond Through Breastfeeding
by Elizabeth Geiger

The number of women who breastfeed their babies has diminished over the years. Today, breasts are considered sexual objects, and many believe that breastfeeding is an obscene practice. 

For this reason, many mothers are apprehensive about breastfeeding their new baby. Breastfeeding is no doubt the best nutrition for your baby. One can't help but awe at the idea that mothers are capable of providing such nourishment and comfort from their own bodies. 

According to The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, by La Leche League International, the benefits for both mother and baby are outstanding. Breastmilk contains all the nutrients you baby will need for at least the first six months of life, antibodies to help fight against infection and illness resulting in fewer colds, allergies. The temperature of breast milk will always be just right for your baby while it is pure and practically unlimited. Nursing after birth promotes contraction of the uterus. Research suggests that breastfeeding mothers have less chances of getting certain illnesses later in life like certain cancers, urinary tract infections, and osteoporosis. 

Throughout pregnancy, a mother and baby are connected, as the baby receives nourishment to grow inside her. At birth, as the umbilical cord is cut, a new connection is made when a mother begins to nurse her baby. A bond that connects Mother and child like nothing else; and the first feeding after birth begins a loving and nurturing relationship with her baby. 

A breastfed baby feels a sense of security; knowing that he can rely on his mother to provide one of his most basic needs - food. A relationship between mother and child built on trust and love that lasts throughout life. As a mother cuddles her baby close and offers her breast, she feels accepted and loved by her baby. She is secure in knowing that her baby is getting the best possible nutrition for growth. A new confidence as she knows she can comfort her baby like no one else, through breastfeeding. 

This special bond is enough for any mother to choose to breastfeed her baby. As a new mother, I know that there is nothing compared to the closeness I feel when I wrap my daughter in my arms and nurse her. I feel the let-down and she begins to nurse eagerly so I can hear every swallow. Every now and then she'll stop, look up at me and give a me a little smile to let me know she feels loved and that she loves me. 

Elizabeth Geiger is a stay at home mother of two children. She is also the Editor and Founder of The Baby Corner (http://www.thebabycorner.com ) and mommycorner.com (http://www.mommycorner.com), which she runs out of her home with her husband Scott. Together they enjoy spending time together as a family, cooking, and offering advice and support for new moms and dads.

Related Articles:

Chilling Out
12 ways to take care of yourself during pregnancy

Pregnancy and Your Oral Health
After practicing dental hygiene for twelve years, I came to realize how many pregnant women were concerned about the old adages surrounding their oral health.

Exercising During Pregnancy
I finally decided what it came down to was trusting myself and paying attention to my body, while staying in strict communication with my midwife.

Common Pregnancy Symptoms
Women go through many changes during pregnancy both physically and emotionally. This article discusses some common symptoms and how you can make yourself more comfortable during these nine months of pregnancy.