Breastfeeding

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Breast feeding

ADVANTAGES OF BREASTFEEDING

Research shows that breastfed babies may have less frequent:

• Ear infections
• Stomach or intestinal infections
• Low iron levels in the blood (iron-deficiency anemia)
• Skin diseases (infantile eczema)
• Infant allergies

Breastfed babies may have less risk of developing:

• Digestive problems such as constipation or diarrhea
• Obesity  or becoming overweight
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Tooth decay

Moms who breastfeed their babies enjoy:

• No bottle cleaning
• No formula preparation
• Lower cost
• Easier weight loss
• Less postpartum bleeding
• Enhancement of the unique bond between mother and child

Moms who breastfeed their babies should:

• Understand that ANY medications you take may enter the breast milk and affect your baby (check with your physician or lactation consultant about which are safe, and do not stop any prescribed medication without discussing with your provider first)
• Maintain adequate nutrition
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, every day
• Get plenty of rest
• Take good care of your nipples and breasts
• Relax and enjoy the experience

POSSIBLE PROBLEMS

If you run into any problems, contact a lactation consultant. Moms who breastfeed may experience:

• Nipple soreness
• Breast engorgement
• Leaking breasts
• Let-down reflex (other than during breastfeeding)
• Difficulty knowing how much milk the baby is drinking
• Not enough milk for the baby's needs

Moms who breastfeed their babies may feel confused by lack of experience or support, afraid or ashamed to ask for help for such a "natural" activity.

Most problems can be easily managed with guidance from a lactation consultant.

Cow's milk by itself is not an adequate source of complete nutrition for infants. Commercially prepared formulas for bottle feeding are excellent sources of nutrition for babies who do not breastfeed.

OTHER FACTORS

Some circumstances can change your plans to breastfeed. How and what your baby eats may ultimately depend on the infant's physical condition and your health after birth. However, with help from a consultant, most babies -- even premature babies -- can breastfeed.