Can You Play a Phone While Breastfeeding Your Child? Check Out the Expert's Opinion

"Menyusi sambil bermain Hp" (Wiliam Fortunato/Pexels)

JAKARTA - In the digital era that is increasingly inseparable from modern life, the moments of breastfeeding that are often long and repetitive are now accompanied by a new habit: the use of mobile phones. On the one hand, the small screen can be a source of entertainment or "me time" for exhausted mothers. On the other hand, there are concerns about how mobile phones can change the dynamics of the mother-baby relationship during breastfeeding. This article explores the opinions of experts on whether mothers can play HP while breastfeeding, while also providing a balanced perspective on what is actually happening behind the habit of breastfeeding while playing mobile phones.

Experts say that direct interaction between mother and baby during breastfeeding, especially through eye contact and responsiveness, plays an important role in building emotional bonding and security in babies. A small study showed that when mothers used smartphones while breastfeeding, their gaze and attention to the baby tended to decrease, so that the potential for eye contact and responsiveness to baby cues also decreased. Physical contact such as skin-to-skin can also be reduced, which has implications for the release of oxytocin hormones that support the breastfeeding process and inner bonding. However, the scientific evidence that mobile phone radiation has a direct health impact on babies is still not strong and requires further study.

However, the attitude of health professionals towards this habit is not black and white. They emphasize that moderate use of mobile phones should not be seen as something entirely negative. Given the physical and emotional challenges experienced by new mothers, who often breastfeed up to dozens of times per day, having a moment to check messages or watch light content on the phone can be an opportunity for mothers to rest and take care of themselves. In this context, experts advocate balance. Put down the phone when it's possible to focus on interacting with the baby, but don't feel guilty when mothers need a little digital time to take care of their mental health.

"The study also found that mothers who used their phones during breastfeeding were more likely to feel stressed and anxious, and less likely to feel happy and content. In addition, experts also gave practical advice that choosing content that is not too disturbing and avoiding 'doomscrolling' - reading negative things constantly can help mothers maintain focus on their own well-being and that of their babies. Face-to-face interaction, talking to babies, or simply enjoying breastfeeding moments without digital distractions remain important moments to strengthen the emotional relationship between mother and child. However, the mistake of using a phone once or twice during breastfeeding should not be a source of shame, balance, attention, and affection remain the main key in this dynamic breastfeeding journey.