What are the benefits of breastfeeding my baby?
Breast milk is best
Breast milk is unique and easy to digest. It has more than 200 elements, many of which are specifically designed to meet your baby’s needs. Some of these living substances protect your baby (i.e., antibodies and enzymes).
Breast milk changes over the day to meet your baby’s needs and changes over time to better meet your child’s needs as she grows.
Help your baby stay healthy
We’ve known for a long time that breastfed babies can better fight off infection compared to babies who aren’t breastfed. Breastfed babies have fewer ear infections, respiratory illnesses, bouts of gastroenteritis, and hospital stays. Breastfeeding may also protect against allergies, sudden infant death syndrome, Type 1 diabetes, inflammatory bowel diseases and some types of cancer.
Breastfeeding protects mom too
Breastfeeding is also beneficial for your health as a mother. Women who breastfeed have a lower risk of bleeding after they give birth. They also have lower risks of getting breast or ovarian cancer or developing osteoporosis. The close bond created between mother and child during breastfeeding gives your baby a sense of safety and comfort that she needs for her well-being.
Get ready to breastfeed
Although breastfeeding is a natural part of pregnancy and childbirth, both you and your baby may need some time to adapt and learn. Starting off right will boost the chances that your breastfeeding experience will be a happy and enjoyable one.
Get information and support
To get ready to breastfeed, you can read books, ask your friends and family questions, and get support from your spouse, family, friends or community groups (support groups and breastfeeding groups). The more support you get, the more likely you’ll have a positive experience and reach your breastfeeding goals. If you’re having problems or feeling discouraged, you can turn to these resources for help or attend support workshops for the parents of young children (faire hyperlien vers ateliers).