The Many Benefits of Breastfeeding

There are so many decisions to make as you enter your journey as a parent. Our IBCLC Dominique is here to share the many benefits of breastfeeding and feeding your baby breastmilk.

Why is breastmilk so important for babies?

Breastmilk is important because it has antibacterial and antiviral properties that boost and protect the infant's immune system. Feeding your baby breastmilk can offer protection against ear infections, pneumonia and bacterial and viral infections like meningitis. Breastmilk can also help protect against SIDS, asthma, eczema, colitis and even certain cancers.  

In addition, each mother's milk is specifically tailor-made for her baby's development, provides all of the proteins, minerals, and vitamins necessary for her infant, and is easier for babies to digest than formula. Some mothers feed their babies directly from the breast, while others choose to pump and then feed their babies from a bottle. There is no right or wrong way to feed your baby breastmilk.   Breastfeeding also provides many non-feeding benefits to your baby. Being close to mom and having skin-to-skin time is beneficial for both you and your little one.

Other benefits of breastfeeding include:

• Comfort
• Bonding
• Pain Relief
• Relaxation
• Temperature regulation
• Regulation of breathing patterns
• Security and safety           

Breastfeeding is good for moms, too

Breastfeeding is not just beneficial for babies but benefits mothers too! When babies latch for the first time, their sucking causes their mothers' uteruses to contract. These contractions help the uterus shrink back down to size and minimize postpartum bleeding.  

Breastfeeding may also help:

• Decrease the risk of postpartum depression
• Decrease the risk of ovarian cancer and breast cancer
• Prevent bone loss and keeping bones strong.

Any duration of breastfeeding is good for the mother, and the decreased risks last a lifetime, even after a mother has stopped breastfeeding.      

Breastmilk has been proven to be lifesaving

Breastmilk feedings help bring about earlier discharge times for infants in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit), resulting in less susceptibility to illnesses and a decrease in an infant's risk for gut lining and digestive tract issues.  

A study in Sweden also showed that HAMLET, a molecular complex in breastmilk, can be used to treat people with bladder cancer. This substance kills cancer cells while keeping the surrounding cells intact and does not have the side effects that come with chemotherapy.  

I want to breastfeed - what now?

Taking a breastfeeding class at your local hospital or working privately with a lactation professional is the best way to get a good start on breastfeeding. These professionals can answer any questions you have and make sure you know what to expect. In addition, you can join a local or online breastfeeding support group, which will allow you to receive support from your community, be exposed to different stages of breastfeeding, and hear how other families have worked through breastfeeding challenges.       

What if a mother needs help?

Sometimes, mothers may have difficulty getting their infants to breastfeed or producing milk for their infants. Lactation professionals can help mothers through their breastfeeding journeys. Breastfeeding support groups led by Certified Lactation Counselors(CLC), Le Leche League Leaders, WIC Peer Counselors or Lactation Educators are great for basic breastfeeding support. If your infant is having medical difficulties like premature birth, poor weight gain or poor feeding, you may want to seek out the local International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) in your area. It’s always best to seek support from a lactation professional if there are any issues with breastfeeding. I

In summary, breastmilk is a wonderful superfood that provides health benefits to both the mother and baby. It is the natural first food for infants, and when possible, should be the first choice for feedings.