It’s National Breastfeeding Week, and I have taken this opportunity to do some research into the benefits of breastfeeding for babies born with a disability.
As a breastfeeding mother, I have learnt so much about the benefits of breastfeeding. I have also become really interested in learning about the benefits of breastfeeding a baby born with disability. So I have been doing some research, and found out some seriously awesome information relating to babies born with Down Syndrome.
Babies born with Down Syndrome can have low muscle tone, which can make breastfeeding, among other things, super hard.
Breastfeeding a baby with down syndrome actually strengthens and tones a babies tongue, lips and face, which can help prepare them for speech and eating later on!
Babies can also be at higher risk of respiratory infections, and breastmilk contains anti-infective factors, including antibodies, against germs that the baby is exposed to!
Pretty awesome hey!!
Here’s to supporting all mums to receive the right information and support they need to start their breastfeeding journey with babies of all abilities.
Brigette – Founder of Create A Sense of Place
You can read more here: https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bf-info/down
