Today, we’re discussing a topic that’s very close to my heart: the benefits of comfort breastfeeding. Whether you’re a new mum, a seasoned pro, or just curious about the wonders of breastfeeding, this post is for you.
Comfort breastfeeding, also known as comfort nursing or comfort feeding, is when a baby nurses not just for nutrition but for the soothing and calming effect it provides. It’s that beautiful, close contact moment when your little one is flutter sucking, seeking more than just breast milk—they’re seeking comfort, security, and emotional support.
1. Pain Relief
One of the most amazing benefits of comfort breastfeeding is its ability to provide pain relief for your baby. Whether it’s teething, vaccinations, or just a bump from a fall, the act of breastfeeding can significantly ease their discomfort. The hormone oxytocin, released during nursing, has a natural calming effect and helps alleviate pain. I always breastfed my daughter during doctor’s appointments especially if there was vaccinations. She wouldn’t even flinch and just carried on nursing during the whole appointment.
2. Emotional Support
Breastfeeding for comfort meets your baby’s emotional needs, providing them with a sense of safety and security. This skin contact with you can soothe a crying baby and help regulate their emotions, fostering a strong emotional bond and a healthy breastfeeding relationship. It really helps them regulate themselves if they are uncomfortable or in pain.
3. Better Sleep
Comfort sucking can be incredibly effective at helping your baby drift off to sleep. The sleep-inducing hormones released during breastfeeding can help establish better sleep associations and more restful sleep times for your baby. It’s a powerful tool for those fussy nights and busy days.
4. Enhanced Milk Production
Did you know that comfort feeding can actually help maintain your milk production? The more your baby nurses, the more signals your body gets to produce enough milk. This can be particularly helpful during growth spurts when your baby’s needs suddenly increase.
5. Non-Nutritive Sucking Benefits
Non-nutritive sucking, like that seen during flutter sucks, helps with the development of your baby’s oral muscles and can lead to a better latch during feeding sessions. This can prevent common problems like poor latch and sore nipples, making the breastfeeding journey smoother for both of you.
6. Stress Relief for Mum
Let’s face it, being a parent can be stressful. Comfort breastfeeding not only soothes your baby but can also help reduce your stress levels. The close contact and body heat during a nursing session can have a calming effect on you too.
7. Bonding Time
Breastfeeding on demand, especially for comfort, offers extra time for bonding with your baby. These precious moments can strengthen your nursing relationship and create lasting memories. It’s a great way to connect, especially after a hectic day.
I breastfed my daughter until she was 3 years old. Yes, it was challenging and at times exhausting. There were days when I wondered if I had enough milk, or if my sore nipples would ever get a break. But using the breast to comfort her during vaccinations, teething, or when she got hurt was incredibly rewarding. It helped us get through some troublesome times with ease and strengthened our bond in ways I couldn’t have imagined.
I vividly remember those early days of exclusive breastfeeding and the sleepless nights of cluster feeding. I learned a lot about my daughter’s needs, and I became attuned to her cues. The health benefits for breastfed babies are well-documented, but the emotional and psychological benefits of comfort breastfeeding were equally important for us.
Breastfeeding for comfort is not a bad thing—it’s a good thing, a great way to provide your baby with the emotional support they need. As a new parent, it’s important to find a comfortable position for both you and your baby to make these nursing sessions as pleasant as possible. And remember, it’s okay to seek help from a lactation consultant or breastfeeding specialist if you encounter issues like poor latch or full breasts.
Breastfeeding on demand, including for comfort, can indeed be challenging and at times exhausting. But I’ve experienced firsthand how using the breast to comfort my daughter during her vaccinations, teething, or if she got hurt, definitely helped us get through some troublesome times with ease.
Breastfeeding my now 7-year-old daughter until she was 3 taught me that while comfort breastfeeding can be demanding, it comes with incredible benefits. With patience, a little grace, and support from family members, you too can experience the joys and benefits of comfort breastfeeding.
So, to all the new mothers and parents out there, remember that comfort breastfeeding is a powerful tool in nurturing your baby. It’s all about finding the best way to meet your baby’s needs while taking care of yourself too.
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