Why Breastfeed?
Breast milk is unique in that it is tailor made so that it provides all the nutrients required by infants for at least the first six months of life. The milk changes according to the needs of the child and contains factors that protect the child’s immune system. Breastfeeding continues that connection between mother’s and babies bodies.
It gives your child a healthy start to life and protects against many diseases
- Exclusive breastfeeding provides infants with protection against infection and some chronic diseases (such as diabetes and obesity) and leads to improved cognitive development.
- Research has shown that breastfed babies are less likely to suffer from eczema, food allergy and respiratory illness.
- Breastfed babies are also less prone to infections (such as middle ear infection) and are less likely than formula fed babies to be hospitalised.
Breast milk is always safe, fresh and the right temperature.
It’s always ready and that makes night feeds and travelling a lot easier.
Breastfeeding has many advantages for mothers, too.
- Breastfeeding helps mothers return to their pre-pregnancy weight more quickly
- It also helps the uterus (“womb’) return to its original size more quickly
- Women who have breastfed have a lower risk of breast and ovarian cancer and hip fractures later in life.
Breastfeeding is the cheapest option
Breastfeeding has definite economic benefits to parents, with the cost of formula substitutes being a significant expense for many families.
What if I can’t breastfeed?
Virtually all women should be able to breastfeed providing they have appropriate support and information from their families, communities and heath services. But sometimes it is not possible to breastfeed your baby. Contact your early childhood nurse or general practitioner who will advise on substitute feeding.