Benefits of breastfeeding for mom and baby

While no one can tell a new mother whether or not to breastfeed, for those who are still trying to decide, there is a great deal of support for the benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and child. Research indicates that breastfeeding not only provides an opportunity to bond with your baby, but also gives them a stronger immune system and helps your body recover from childbirth more quickly.

Breastfeeding is beneficial for infants because they are able to obtain antibodies from their mothers’ breast milk that they cannot otherwise obtain. Research indicates that antibodies may benefit the baby both while being breastfed and for the rest of his or her life in the following ways:

• Reduced likelihood of developing both asthma and allergies
• Lowered risk of ear infections
• Lower occurrence of diarrhea, bowel diseases, and urinary tract infections
• Lower risk of obesity and diabetes
• Less irritable and less sensitive to stress
• May improve intellectual development

Not only does your baby gain significantly when you choose to breastfeed, but many mothers find that they also benefit distinctly from breastfeeding. There are no bottles to clean or formula to mix, making it cleaner and simpler than using formula.

Additionally, mothers who choose to breastfeed often find that:

• They experience a unique bond with their baby during this experience
• They are less tired than mothers who do not breastfeed
• It is easier to lose the weight gained during pregnancy
• They have a lower risk of both breast cancer and ovarian cancer
• It takes longer for them to start periods again
• The hormones that help produce milk also signal the body to contract the uterus back to pre-pregnancy size

If you are unable to breastfeed, do not despair. You will still be able to bond with your baby and can discuss with your healthcare provider other steps you can take to boost baby’s immune system. There is no single correct way to raise your child, and the best gift you can give your baby is your love!

Whether or not you decide to breastfeed your little one, you can find award winning products that will help such as the Bosom Baby Breastfeeding Pillow at Luna Lullaby. Shop our wide variety of colors and fabrics to find just the right one for you.