Silliman University Medical Center Department of Pediatrics chair, Dr. Elminda Oracion, spoke during the recent  Global Big Latch On 2018 event in Dumaguete City, where she discussed the benefits of breastfeeding.

“For mothers, breastfeeding burns extra calories, so, it can help you lose pregnancy weight faster,” the department chair explained. “It releases the hormone oxytocin, which helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size and may reduce uterine bleeding after birth.”

“Breastfeeding also lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancer,” she added.

Oracion also made note of the nutrients provided through breastfeeding.

According to the World Health Organization, “Skin-to-skin contact, along with suckling at the breast, stimulate the production of breastmilk, including colostrum, also called the baby’s ‘first vaccine,’ which is extremely rich in nutrients and antibodies.”

The event was held in accordance with  World Breastfeeding Week, which ended last week.

Meanwhile, the Commission on Population and the Department of Health are both observing Breastfeeding and Family Planning Month throughout August./WDJ