by: SAC Health Staff Writer
Doctors agree that breastfeeding is the healthiest way to feed your baby, with a host of immediate and long-term benefits. What you may not know is that breastfeeding also has benefits for the lactating mother. August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, so it’s a great time to familiarize yourself with all the reasons experts recommend breastfeeding.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that newborn infants be breastfed within an hour of birth, and fed with only breast milk, known as “exclusive breastfeeding”, for the first six months (unless a healthcare provider recommends otherwise). After six months, babies can continue taking breast milk along with other foods until they’re at least two years old.
Scientific research indicates that breastfeeding may have the following benefits for a newborn:
Provides a highly nutritious food source that’s easy on an undeveloped digestive system.
Meets 100% of nutritional needs for the first six months, then changes along with your growing child’s needs.
Shares antibodies from the mother to develop the baby’s immune system, reducing the likelihood of ear infections and diarrhea.
Contributes to developing the baby’s eyesight and brain function.
Lowers the average infant’s risk of asthma, diabetes, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), obesity and several other conditions.
Evidence suggests that breastfeeding also has a positive impact on the lactating parent:
Produces hormones that help you physically recover from childbirth.
Lowers the risk of postpartum depression and helps you bond with your newborn.
Cheaper and more convenient than baby formula, as it’s free and always available.
Lowers cholesterol and blood pressure, and reduces your risk for several cancers.
If you want to breastfeed but plan to return to work after giving birth, breast pumps are a convenient option that will give your baby all the same nutritional benefits as direct feeding. Many insurance plans cover the cost of pumps, and breast milk can be frozen for later use. Make sure to practice before going back to work, so you can get used to pumping and your baby can get accustomed to drinking from a bottle.
Although medical experts recommend six months of exclusive breastfeeding, that’s not always possible for every parent. Certain health issues can be passed down from parent to child through breast milk, and other health conditions can make it difficult to lactate on demand. Social conditions—such as a workplace that lacks private space for feeding—may also pose problems.
If you’re pregnant and still not sure whether to breastfeed, SAC Health is here to support you. The lactation consultant at our walk-in lactation clinic can assess whether breastfeeding is best for you and your baby, offer recommendations for your unique situation, and answer any questions you may have.
There are no appointments necessary to meet with a lactation consultant at our pediatrics department. Visit us at our San Bernardino Campus clinic, located at 250 S G St, San Bernardino, CA 92410.
