There are many benefits of breastfeeding/chestfeeding for mothers and their babies, including:
For Babies
- Stronger immune systems
- Fewer GI issues, such as diarrhea, constipation, gastroenteritis, gastroesophageal reflux, and preterm necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), Crohn’s disease, and colitis
- Fewer colds and respiratory illnesses like pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and whooping cough
- Fewer ear infections
- Improved brain maturation
- Fewer instances of allergies, eczema, and asthma
- Fewer case of bacterial meningitis
- Less likelihood of becoming obese later in childhood
- Fewer childhood cancers, including leukemia and lymphomas
- Lower risk of type I and II diabetes
- Fewer cavities
- Improved vision
- Lower rates of infant mortality
- Lower rates of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
- Decreased hospitalization rates
For Mom:
- Faster weight loss after birth
- Less postpartum bleeding
- Fewer urinary tract infections
- Less chance of anemia
- Produces the naturally soothing hormones that promote stress reduction and positive feelings in the nursing mother.
- Less risk of postpartum depression and more positive mood
- Lower risk of breast cancer
- Lower risk of ovarian cancer
Lifestyle:
- Breastfeeding/chestfeeding saves money
- Parents have up to six times less absenteeism from work
- Breastfeeding/chestfeeding makes travel easier.