Breastfeeding Benefits
Ask our expert about the benefits of breastfeeding
- I’m considering breastfeeding. What are the benefits for me and my child?
- I heard breastfeeding is difficult. Is this true?
- I plan to return to work after my maternity leave. How can I continue breastfeeding?
Q: I’m considering breastfeeding. What are the benefits for me and my child?
A: Breastfeeding is wonderful for both you and your baby. It provides a unique bonding experience, is healthier for your baby than formula, and protects you and your child from illnesses. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding your child for the first year (with complimentary foods in the latter six months).
Benefits for your baby
Your breastmilk is food tailored just for your baby. It’s a totally perfect food. With an ideal balance of nutrients, it changes as your baby grows. It also builds the immune system to help protect your child from:
- Childhood diabetes
- SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome)
- Ear infections
- Respiratory infections
- Childhood lymphoma
- Intestinal disorder
- Allergies
- Stomach upsets
- Meningitis
- Asthma
Breastmilk contains endorphins (chemicals that suppress pain), so it calms and comforts your baby. Studies show breastfed babies are healthier, so they see the doctor less often. Also, studies show children who are breastfed have higher IQs.
Benefits for youFor starters, breastfeeding is convenient. You don’t have to make a bottle for every feeding; you’re always prepared. Because you don’t have to purchase formula, breastfeeding can save you $1,200 a year – a benefit for your whole family.
Breastfeeding also protects you from osteoporosis, ovarian and endometrial cancers and anemia, and decreases your risk of breast cancer. When you breastfeed, your body returns to its pre-pregnancy weight much more quickly. Lactation causes the uterus (increased during pregnancy to about 20 times its normal size) to return back to its pre-pregnancy size. In addition, breastfeeding burns an extra 500 calories a day. So, if you eat a normal diet while breastfeeding, you’ll shed those extra pregnancy pounds faster.
Q: I heard breastfeeding is difficult. Is this true?
A: Some women have this wonderful vision of what breastfeeding will be like. Unfortunately, it’s not always what they expect. It takes time and experience to learn the art of breastfeeding. It’s a lot like learning to drive a car. The first trip around the block is slow and challenging. But, with each trip, it gets easier.
It’s beneficial to learn what to expect before you begin breastfeeding. Read, talk to women who have breastfed or take one of our breastfeeding classes. Call 610-402-CARE for class information. Remember, it’s natural for a baby to want to be with her mother. But, breastfeeding doesn’t happen naturally. Once you learn the techniques, it gets easier.
Are you breastfeeding now? Join our Monday Morning Moms group, in which breastfeeding moms offer support and tips for each other. ( Call 610-402-CARE for more information or click here)
Q: I plan to return to work after my maternity leave. How can I continue breastfeeding?
A: So many women breastfeed while maintaining a full-time career. Having support makes it easier. You may find support in a friend, relative, pediatrician’s office or by calling us at 610-402-7264. We’ll talk to you about your breastfeeding goals and offer advice for your concerns. Also, take our Return to Work class for guidance on how to continue breastfeeding while working. Call 610-402-CARE for more information.
Our advice is to first develop a plan and invest in a good breast pump. Share your breastfeeding plans with your employer, as you will need a private place and time through out the day to pump your breastmillk. Discuss proper storage and handling of breastmilk with your child’s caregiver.
This page last updated 1/6/09 04:35 PM
