Several types and series of adapted Aptamil and Bebelac formulas have been withdrawn from the Montenegrin market, which has reopened the issue of safety and choice in the most sensitive phase of a child's life — and the medical profession has been repeating for years that breast milk is the healthiest and most biologically adapted food for a newborn.
Although breastfeeding is a natural process, it is often not easy in practice. Many women enter motherhood without sufficient practical support, without systematic education in maternity wards and without clear, consistent advice after leaving the hospital. This is where the space for insecurity, giving up and prejudices arises.
Benefits of breastfeeding for the baby
Breast milk is a dynamic, living substance that adapts to the needs of the baby from day to day. It contains the ideal ratio of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, as well as antibodies, enzymes and hormones that:
- strengthen immunity and reduce the risk of respiratory and intestinal infections
- protect against the development of allergies
- contribute to healthier development of intestinal flora
- reduce the risk of obesity and diabetes later in life
- support optimal brain development
In addition to nutritional value, breastfeeding provides a sense of security and closeness that plays an important role in emotional development.
Benefits of breastfeeding for the mother
The benefits are not one-sided. Breastfeeding helps a mother's body recover more quickly after childbirth, as it encourages uterine contractions and reduces postpartum bleeding. In the long term, research shows a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer, as well as a lower risk of type 2 diabetes.
There is also a psychological dimension — the release of oxytocin during breastfeeding reduces stress and strengthens the emotional bond between mother and baby.
The most common misconceptions about breastfeeding
Despite its proven benefits, breastfeeding is still surrounded by myths:
"I don't have enough milk."
In most cases, the problem is not in the quantity, but in the technique of placing the baby on the breast or not breastfeeding frequently enough in the first few days.
"My milk isn't strong enough."
Breast milk is nutritionally adapted to the baby at all times. There is no such thing as "weak" milk in the physiological sense.
"Breastfeeding must hurt."
Pain is most often a sign of improper breast attachment. When the position is correct, breastfeeding should not be painful.
"The formula is just as good."
Adapted formulas are an important alternative when breastfeeding is not possible, but they cannot fully replicate the immunological and biological components of breast milk.
How problems are solved
The key is education and support. Proper counseling already in the maternity ward, the availability of lactation consultants and nurses, as well as support from partners and family, significantly increase the success of breastfeeding.
Mothers need knowledge, but also encouragement — that initial difficulties are not a sign of failure, but part of the learning process.
In a time when the market can fail, a biological mechanism that has existed for thousands of years remains a reliable foundation — provided that the system and society provide mothers with adequate support.
For anyone who wants to learn more and support women who want to breastfeed, visit numerous sites with important and useful information:
Breastfeeding | All about breastfeeding | GENDER
La Leche League International - Breastfeeding Support
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