Eco Child’s Play

I interviewed a friend of mine who works in public health about breastfeeding being baby’s first natural immunization, in the hopes of sorting out perceptions and realities when it comes to germs, diseases, and vaccines from a ‘green’ perspective…

AJ: We’ve all heard doctors explain how breast milk protects newborns via antibodies, proteins and immune cells, but rather than deep dive into the science of secretory IgA molecules, I’m going to ask a simple ‘Earth mom’ question…Is breastfeeding enough of a ‘human vaccine?’

R: ‘Breast is best’ to boost immunity from infections, reduce respiratory illnesses…But breastfeeding ONLY offers limited protection from serious diseases like measles, pneumonia, and whooping cough.

Breastfeeding works synergistically with immunizations, boosting the levels of protection against disease to actually increase the protection your baby gets. ALL ingredients in vaccines serve a purpose, whether it’s triggering a child’s immune response, or keeping them germ free. Even though we’ve eradicated some diseases in this country before, our mobile society makes it easy to have them come right back over on a plane…‘Herd protection’ only goes so far.

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AJ: Would you recommend breastfeeding DURING shots to soothe and comfort or will the baby associate breastfeeding with a vaccine and have reverb?

R: Breastfeeding is a great way to comfort your baby during shots. Babies who are breastfed during immunization show even fewer signs of pain and stress than those who are held but not breastfed. Plus, it allows baby to be close to you. Even knowing how important baby shots are, it’s still hard to watch your child get ‘em…

AJ: Breastfeeding eco-moms are pretty vigilant about researching what goes into their bods, from herbal remedies and natural pregnancy teas to what might cause the baby gas…How would you reassure moms about the unnatural ingredients in vaccines? Are there staggered shot series or greener, safer vaccines?

R: Well, it was almost ten years ago when thimerosal was removed from vaccines, and now vaccines contain only trace amounts or no mercury at all, but the autism controversy continues. (see updated FDA/thimerosal-free stats) Breastfeeding moms are going to want to reassure themselves, it’s only natural, but the AAP, World Health Organization, and CDC found no evidence to suggest a link, and if you look at all sides in this WebMD feature it’s easy to see it’s not just the government recommending breastfeeding AND vaccines combined, for example, the nonprofit Institute of Medicine goes so far as to say there is NOT a causal link…

AJ: I read two doctors with opposite stances in Cookie Magazine debating the pros and cons of vaccines and was surprised to see Amanda Peet in the same issue, vehemently in favor of vaccines. (being an eco-mom and all) What about homeopathy, herbal medicines and lactation? Are there any other public health/breastfeeding tips you can give us?

R: I’d say check with the doctor on herbals, as they ARE medicines, just like any other medication, vitamin, or lifestyle choice that could impact the mother’s milk.

As for public health tips…local lactation consultants are avail, and free or low-cost vaccines through the Vaccines for Children program too…hopefully hospitals have switched to freebie breastfeeding pads, balms and lotions instead of formula. If not, speak up!

Related Posts on Breastfeeding from Eco Child’s Play:

Kentucky Mom Asked to Leave a McDonald’s for Breastfeeding
Why Breastfeeding Can Be Frustrating for Stay-At-Home Dads
Breastfeeding While on Anti-Depressants for Postpartum Depression

Visual Credit: Health Department/caduceus: health.vctx.org

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