THE GOLDEN HOUR

 The “Golden hour” is a term used to describe the first hour after birth. This is a crucial time when the mother and baby share their first intimate moments, initiating an emotional bond with significant health benefits. It is during this hour that the first breastfeeding usually occurs. Breastfeeding during the golden hour helps the baby stabilize its heart rate, breathing, and blood sugar. It also keeps the baby warm and helps the mother and baby develop a strong bond. The benefits of breastfeeding extend far beyond the golden hour.

I had a normal vaginal delivery with an epidural, my husband was present as a companion which meant a lot to me and added extra support. The epidural anaesthesia helped me be calm and cooperative during the second stage of labour. The baby was delivered with the assistance of a vacuum because my pushing efforts were not adequate and I’m sure my gynae did not have enough patience to wait for an hour for a primigravida to push this baby out. Everything went well. I was well and the placenta was delivered and I had a few sutures down there. The baby came out vigorous and crying! A paediatrician was also present to make sure the baby was breathing well, happy and pink, and safe to be with the mother.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding are protective against breast cancer in women. according to a report by the World Health Organization, the risk of breast cancer decreases by 6% for each year a woman breastfeeds. The reduction in cancer risk is thought to be due to changes in breast tissue that occur during lactation making the cells more resistant to mutations that lead to cancer.

Breastfeeding lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure. It reduces the LDL levels which is the body’s bad cholesterol. It also reduces insulin resistance and the risk of diabetes. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that women who breastfed for six months or more had a 47% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those who did not breastfeed.

Breastfeeding is not always easy, and everyone will have a different experience. As healthcare professionals, we must provide help and support to mothers choosing to breastfeed their babies.  




 

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