Breastfeeding A Down Syndrome Baby

Peace and blessings to everyone around the world. Down Syndrome is one of the most common genetic birth defects. Additionally, many of these babies have health problems, with some type of degree of mental retardation and as well as characteristic physical features. The most common type is called Trisomy 21. These babies have three copies of the 21 chromosomes. A human being has 23 chromosomes, which contain genetic material from your parents, half from your mom and the half from your dad. Breastfeeding a baby with Down Syndrome can be challenging. In these past few weeks,have had the pleasure and honor of working with a beautiful mom and her little angel, who has Down Syndrome. Both of them have done an amazing job. I am so proud of this mom because she has tried so hard to breastfeed her daughter. She knows that breast milk provides her daughter with so many amazing benefits and nutrition. Furthermore, I have told her to be more patient with her because her baby has a weaker suck and low muscle tone, making it harder to learn to breastfeed. I watch how patient this mom is with her. I leave her home saying to myself, how lucky this little girl is because she has such a wonderful mom and extended family who is showering her with so much love.The mother tells me that when dad comes home from work, he cannot stop hugging his beautiful baby girl enough. Breastfeeding improves tongue and mouth coordination for these babies with Down Syndrome. This can be a real developmental advantage for them. Therefore, if you can breastfeed your baby, you are really helping them so many wonderful ways. Breastfeeding helps with the protection from infection. Breast milk contains live cells and antibodies. Moms passes these along to their babies while breastfeeding. These babies immune systems tend to be a little weaker, therefore breastfeeding really helps strengthen them. Furthermore, breastfeeding helps with digestive problems because it is easily digested and the best food that you can give to your newborn. It also helps with skin problems. Pump to make sure you have extra breast milk, in case your baby needs some more milk. I have used a nipple shield for this last baby with Down Syndrome. It is easier for her to latch onto her mother's breast. She also gets sleepy and tires out more easily.The nipple shield helps her stay focused while feeding a little better. It is best to offer more frequent breastfeeding sessions. Try to position the baby closeto you and use extra pillows if needed. You may need to support your baby's chin and jaw by holding your hand under her chin in a, U hold. This position is also called the "Dancer Hold." In conclusion, breastfeeding a Down Syndrome baby can be very challenging. However, breastfeeding offers such a special bond between you and your baby. It helps your baby grow in strength and muscle tone. The extra skin to skin, the closeness between mom and baby provides comforttherefore, it helps your Down Syndrome baby's health and well being. Just try to be patient and slowly breastfeeding will get easier and better for both you and your baby. You are an amazing mom for breastfeeding yourbaby.Keep up the good work. I am so proud of all the moms in the world who breastfeed their babies.