Why Breastfeeding Matters For You and Your Baby
Did You Know?
Did you know that breastfeeding benefits both new babies and new moms?
Benefits for New Babies
Breastfeeding has incredible benefits for babies that can last into adolescence and beyond. Breastfed babies have lower rates of asthma, diabetes, respiratory disease, ear infections, vomiting and diarrhea, and SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome), or crib death.
Just like during pregnancy, your body conveniently creates the essential nutrition for your baby. Breastmilk offers infants easily absorbed nutrients and contains antibodies from you to help them fight infection, while providing health benefits that can last throughout childhood. Children who have been breastfed may have fewer cavities, improved brain maturity, and stronger overall immunity to infection. (1)
Benefits for New Moms
Breastfeeding also offers wonderful short-term benefits for new mothers. It stimulates the uterus to contract after giving birth, reduces postpartum bleeding, and burns an extra 500+ calories a day, helping the body through the process of healing and recovery from pregnancy and childbirth. Breastfeeding also releases those feel-good hormones like oxytocin – for the mom and the baby – which can reduce stress and promote bonding.
Women who breastfeed experience long-term benefits such as fewer urinary tract infections, lower rates of postpartum depression, and reduced risk of ovarian and breast cancer. (2)
Because breast milk is naturally produced, it offers a convenient and affordable way to feed your baby. You won’t have to worry about choosing and buying formula, bottles, and nipples. Instead of spending time mixing and warming the formula, you can spend that time bonding with your baby.
(1) US Department of Health & Human Services Office on Women's Health. Health Topics: Breastfeeding. (https://www.womenshealth.gov/breastfeeding) Accessed 2/12/2022.
(2) Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. Breastfeeding.(http://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/) Accessed 2/17/2022.