Benefits of breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a big commitment, one that new mothers should consider even before giving birth. There are many benefits of breastfeeding for both the infant and the mother, as it provides a unique blend of all the nutrients and antibodies that a baby needs to be healthy.

Here is an overview of the benefits of breastfeeding and recommendations that can help you make the best decision for you and your baby.

Breastfeeding is recommended by experts.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that new mothers exclusively breastfeed their infants for about 6 months, meaning that no other foods or drinks — not even water — should be introduced.

After that, they recommend continued breastfeeding while introducing complementary foods. Mothers can continue breastfeeding for a year or longer, as desired by the mother and infant.

Breast milk is safe, clean, and the perfect temperature for babies, minimizing the need to sterilize equipment and warm milk during formula feeding. You can think of it as a food source that is always available to your baby. Though it is a big commitment — especially for working mothers who may need to use breast pumps and store milk — there are many benefits to consider.

Benefits for the infant

The World Health Organization describes breastmilk as “the ideal food for infants”. It provides all the energy and nutrients an infant needs and provides antibodies that can protect against diseases.

Essential nutrients

Breast Milk provides the perfect balance of fats, sugars, water, protein, and minerals that a baby needs for healthy development in their first months of life and even beyond.

Suited to baby’s needs

One unique benefit of breast milk is that it is dynamic and contains active molecules. This means its composition changes to suit the baby’s needs over time.

Lowered risk of infections and increased survival

Breast milk contains antibodies, molecules that your immune system produces to fight foreign substances like bacteria and viruses. As a result, breast milk offers protection from common childhood illnesses and infections, such as ear infections and respiratory tract infections.

Breastfeeding also lowers the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, which is when a baby dies suddenly and without explanation in the first year of life.

Lowered risk of allergic diseases

Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of infants developing allergic diseases like asthma, atopic dermatitis, and eczema. Preterm babies who are breastfed also have a reduced risk of short- and long-term health problems.

Better health outcomes later in life

Breastfed infants may have a reduced risk of obesity and diabetes later in life.

The AAP’s policy statement on breastfeeding says that even with complex confounding factors (factors that influence a study’s outcomes) there is a 15 to 30 percent reduction in adolescent and adult obesity rates if any breastfeeding occurred in infancy compared with no breastfeeding.

Bonding with mother

Breastfeeding also provides an opportunity for mothers and babies to bond. The skin-to-skin contact and eye contact can help babies feel secure.

Benefits for the mother

Mothers also benefit from breastfeeding, such as a reduced risk of contracting breast or ovarian cancer.

Breastfeeding triggers the release of the hormone oxytocin, which allows milk to flow more easily and promotes bonding and affection between mother and baby. Oxytocin also causes the uterus to contract, which can help it return to normal size more quickly after pregnancy.

Tips for breastfeeding mothers

Breastfeeding also has its challenges, such as getting the baby to latch on correctly.

Good latching practices start from birth. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says: “Holding your baby directly against your bare skin right after birth triggers reflexes that help the baby to attach or ‘latch on’ to your breast.”

To help your baby latch on, be sure that they’re in a comfortable position facing you. Then, cup your breast in your hand and use your nipple to stroke your baby’s lower lip until they open their mouth. When they do, bring the baby closer to your breast and aim the nipple toward the roof of the mouth.

Visit the ACOG’s website for other tips on breastfeeding, such as recognizing when your baby is hungry, how often to breastfeed, and getting a balanced diet.

Talk to your doctor about breastfeeding

Some mothers may have trouble breastfeeding and may need additional support. It’s a learning process for both the mother and baby. Women with certain medical conditions or taking some medications may be unable to breastfeed. Be sure to chat with your doctor about breastfeeding, including any concerns you may have.

Another challenge is that milk ducts can sometimes become clogged during breastfeeding, leading to lactational mastitis, a breast infection that can lead to tenderness, swelling, pain, and potentially a yeast infection.

If you have mastitis, Alpha can help. With our online consultations, you can receive healthcare from the comfort of your home. Sign up today for advice and treatment from one of our licensed medical providers.