You may already be aware of the great benefits that breastfeeding offers newborns. Breast milk contains natural antibodies that strengthen the immune system in infants — particularly important given that children with Down syndrome have a greater likelihood of developing respiratory illnesses and other infectious diseases. Breast milk can also help ease bladder and bowel control issues that are more common in infants with Down syndrome, and it contains a component known to contribute to brain development and overall growth.
In addition, the act of breastfeeding strengthens the infant's jaw and facial muscles, which helps develop speech and language skills. It also stimulates sensory feelings between the mother and her baby, creating neural connections that facilitate learning in later stages.
Breastfeeding or Formula?
Breastfeeding has many benefits, but whether or not to do so is a personal choice. Some mothers rely exclusively on breastfeeding, while others use formula, and some combine both. The reasons behind this decision vary — including a mother feeling that her body does not produce enough milk, the baby having health issues, or the mother choosing to return to work soon after giving birth.
Breastfeeding Challenges with Down Syndrome
If you decide to breastfeed, it is important to be aware of some potential challenges:
- Infants with Down syndrome experience general low muscle tone, which can make it difficult at first to learn the correct latch and feeding position.
- Children with Down syndrome tend to sleep more than their peers, which means the mother may need to make extra effort to keep the baby awake throughout a feeding session.
- If the baby requires surgery, they may need a feeding tube for a short period.
The Right Choice for You and Your Baby
The most important aspect of feeding is making the decision that works best for you. Feeding sessions should be a precious opportunity to build the bond between mother and child, and should therefore be as comfortable as possible for both. We recommend consulting the lactation specialist at your hospital to find the best option for you.
Source: The information in this article has been reproduced under an exclusive agreement with the National Down Syndrome Society. Available at: ndss.org
