By Angela McPhillips DNP, RN
Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board
“Breast is best” is a controversial slogan in the realm of infant feeding. The perceived ease and availability of infant formulas make many moms wonder whether breastfeeding is worth the effort. New moms who hear breastfeeding horror stories from friends and family may feel especially nervous.
Many mothers think that breastfeeding only means feeding the baby directly from the breast. But moms can also breastfeed by pumping out milk from the breast and bottle-feeding it to the baby.
So is breastfeeding really the best?
Let’s examine the top five science-backed benefits of breastfeeding.
Bonding and Emotional Connection
Breastfeeding promotes early and frequent skin-to-skin contact between mom and baby. This close contact contributes to the release of oxytocin (the “love” or “feel good” hormone) which helps mom and baby feel close to each other. This builds a long-lasting, trusting relationship that also leads to more milk production.
Optimal Nutrition for Baby
Your breast milk is the perfect food for your baby. Breastmilk contains nutrients and living organisms that are constantly changing to meet the nutritional and immune needs of the baby. The nutrients in breast milk are easily digestible possibly leading to less colic and fussiness. Breastmilk is full of antibodies that protect babies against short- and long-term infections and diseases such as:
· Asthma
· Obesity
· Type 1 diabetes
· Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
· Ear infections
· Stomach infections (diarrhea/vomiting)
Health Benefits for Mother
Breastfeeding benefits moms in many ways. Moms who breastfeed recover more quickly from childbirth and may have an easier time losing pregnancy weight. Breastfeeding lowers the risk for postpartum depression. Long-term benefits of breastfeeding include lowering the risk of developing:
· Breast cancer
· Ovarian cancer
· Type 2 diabetes
· High cholesterol
· High blood pressure
· Osteoporosis
Cost-Effectiveness and Convenience
Breastfeeding is cost-saving. Families save on the cost of formula and feeding equipment. Moms and babies who get sick less incur lower healthcare costs. Breastfeeding is a convenient and readily available food source. No hassle planning, preparing, or washing bottles.
Environmental Impact
Breastfeeding generates no waste so it has a smaller carbon footprint than formula feeding. It is a highly sustainable and eco-friendly feeding option that contributes to a healthier planet for future generations.
Challenges and Support
Breastfeeding provides physical and emotional benefits for both mothers and babies, while also optimizing the baby's nutritional intake.
Breastfeeding is convenient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly.
Breastfeeding can be challenging for a variety of reasons including medical issues or past surgeries. Follow up with your doctor if you have concerns about your health or the health of your baby. Alternative feeding options may be necessary (and are ok!) if breastfeeding does not work for you and your baby.
But don’t give up if you have some bumps in the road!
Get online support through organizations like La Leche League and lean on friends and family for practical help.
Book a consultation with a lactation specialist, who can guide and support you throughout your breastfeeding experience.
Remember every mother’s breastfeeding experience is different. But the right knowledge and support are keys to a successful breastfeeding journey – whatever the journey may be for you and your baby.
Sources
Benefits of Breastfeeding. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/15274-benefits-of-breastfeeding
Breast Milk Is Best. Johns Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/breastfeeding-your-baby/breast-milk-is-the-best-milk
Breastfeeding Benefits Both Mom and Baby. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpao/features/breastfeeding-benefits/index.html
Breastfeeding. Why It Matters. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
La Leche League International. https://llli.org/