Juggling career and motherhood

Juggling career and motherhood is a daunting task that only women who go through it can relate to. Since the first six months postpartum are the most crucial for the baby’s growth, development and wellbeing, exclusive breast feeding in this phase is a norm.

Considering India has not yet adopted universal maternity leave policy of six months in all sectors, many women try to wean the baby to solids before getting back to work.

However, these issues are better dealt with off late with the advent of good quality breast pumps and feeding room facilities in offices, airports and even malls.

Breastfeeding not only builds the immunity for the baby, it has positive benefits for the mothers too. It promotes weight loss in the postpartum state and also helps the mother regain her original shape and form.

It is well known now that women who don't breastfeed have increased risk of developing heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, breast cancer, ovarian cancer and hip fractures in postmenopausal phase of a women’s life.

Since lactation is also associated with absence of ovulation, it has added benefits of providing contraception as long as its exclusive and no top feeds are given.

By: Dr Sahana K
(The writer is Consultant Obstetrician & Gynecologist,Medikoe)