Why Breastfeeding Matters for Mom and Baby

Breastfeeding offers important health benefits for both mom and baby. Breast milk changes as your baby grows, providing nutrients that support healthy development and antibodies that help build a strong immune system. Breastfeeding may also support a mom’s health during recovery and for years to come.

Every feeding journey is different and challenges are common. If you have questions about what works best for you and your family, talk with a lactation consultant or your healthcare provider. The World Health Organization and American Academy of Pediatrics recommend exclusive breastfeeding for about the first six months of life. This means a baby receives breast milk without other foods or drinks, unless a healthcare provider recommends otherwise.

At around six months, parents can begin introducing safe, age-appropriate complimentary foods while continuing to breastfeed for up to two years or longer, as desired.

Why is breastfeeding important

Breast milk contains nutrients that support a baby’s growth and antibodies that help strengthen the immune system. Breastfeeding is also linked with a lower risk of certain short- and long-term health conditions.

Nutrition benefits for babies

Breast milk provides important nutrients that help babies grow and develop, changing over time to help meet your baby’s needs.

• Breast milk is often easy for babies to digest.
• It changes as your baby grows
• It contains fats that support brain and eye development.

Protection from illness

Breast milk shares antibodies from mom with baby and can help strengthen a baby’s immune system to protect against certain and help prevent serious infection. Breastfed babies may have:

• A lower risk of ear infections and stomach bugs
• A lower risk of severe respiratory illnesses that affect the lungs and breathing
• Added immune support to help their bodies respond to viruses and bacteria

Long-term health benefits for babies

Some breastfeeding benefits may continue as a child grows. Research has shown breastfeeding can help lower the risk of:

• Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
• Asthma
• Obesity
• Type 1 diabetes
• Childhood leukemia, a type of blood cancer

Benefits of breastfeeding for moms

Babies aren’t the only ones who can benefit from breastfeeding. Women who breastfeed can experience health benefits starting soon after. Feeding time can also create moments of closeness and connection between mom and baby, decreasing your risk of postpartum depression.

Overtime, breastfeeding is linked with a lower risk of:

• Breast cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure

Breastfeeding beyond six months

At around six months, babies begin needing nutrients from foods in addition to breast milk. The World Health Organization and American Academy of Pediatrics support continued breastfeeding for up to two years or longer, as long as it works for both mom and baby. Your pediatrician can also help you decide when your baby is ready to begin solid foods.

Saint Agnes Breastfeeding Support

Breastfeeding can take time and it’s normal to have questions along the way. Saint Agnes lactation specialists are here to help you and your baby throughout your breastfeeding journey.

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