Choosing to breastfeed your child can be exciting and empowering – but also a bit daunting.
Despite what many people might presume, breastfeeding requires patience and experience, and many mothers need a little help at first.
In celebration of National Breastfeeding Month, we’re here to highlight the immense breastfeeding benefits for both mothers and babies. We also want to offer valuable advice to help mothers get started.
If things don’t click right away, don’t worry: that’s totally normal, and there are many things you can do to make breastfeeding easier and more productive.
At Klingensmith’s Drug Stores, we’re proud to support breastfeeding mothers with a range of essential products, including nipple shields, breast pumps, nursing covers, and more. We’ve been serving local families since the 1940s, and our team is dedicated to making parenthood a little easier.
Keep reading to learn more about breastfeeding basics and benefits. You’ll also find some tips for breastfeeding more effectively and comfortably.
Benefits of Breastfeeding for the Baby
Understanding the breastfeeding basics can greatly benefit your baby’s health and well-being. Here are some key advantages for the newest member of your family:
Nutritional Superiority
Breastfeeding provides unmatched nutritional benefits for your baby. Breast milk contains the perfect balance of vitamins, proteins, and fats.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months is recommended. This is followed by continued breastfeeding as complementary foods are introduced for 1 year or longer.
Breast milk also adjusts its composition to meet your baby’s changing needs over time, making it the ideal nourishment. This natural food source is tailored to meet your baby’s needs, promoting healthy growth and development.
Immune System Support
Breast milk is packed with antibodies that help protect your baby from infections and illnesses. Research shows that breastfed infants are less likely to develop respiratory infections, ear infections, and gastrointestinal issues.
Additionally, research conducted by the Department of Paediatrics at the University of Auckland found that breastfeeding for over two months can offer some protection from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Enhanced Bonding
Last, but certainly not least, the act of breastfeeding releases the hormone oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” which helps to enhance the emotional bond between mother and child. Oxytocin not only facilitates breast milk ejection but also promotes feelings of relaxation and emotional well-being for the baby and momma.
Furthermore, breastfeeding encourages mothers to spend more time with their babies, providing ample opportunities for physical closeness and eye contact. Many mothers view this as a special bonding time, and research supports this.
Benefits of Breastfeeding for Mothers
Breastfeeding is a holistic health booster, offering physical, emotional, and financial advantages. Below we’ll explore breastfeeding benefits for mothers:
Long-Term Health Benefits
Breastfeeding isn’t just great for your baby; it’s a big win for the mother’s health, too.
For example, research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology indicates that breastfeeding for longer durations is linked to great cardiovascular benefits.
Women who breastfed for a total of two years or more also had a significantly lower risk of developing heart disease and stroke. Additionally, breastfeeding has been associated with a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Furthermore, the process of breastfeeding helps new mothers burn extra calories, which can assist in postpartum weight loss and help mothers return to their pre-pregnancy weight more quickly.
This natural calorie burn, coupled with the release of oxytocin, which promotes uterine contraction, can also reduce postpartum bleeding, making recovery quicker and easier for some new mothers.
Lower Risk of Cancer
According to MD Anderson, breastfeeding has been shown to significantly lower the risk of both breast and ovarian cancer. This protective effect is largely attributed to hormonal changes that occur during lactation.
When a woman breastfeeds, her estrogen levels are reduced, which can decrease the chances of breast cancer development since estrogen can promote the growth of certain types of breast cancer cells. Additionally, the shedding of breast tissue during lactation may help remove cells with potential DNA damage, further reducing cancer risk.
For cancer in the ovaries, the connection to breastfeeding is also linked to hormonal shifts. During breastfeeding, ovulation is often suppressed, which means fewer cycles of hormone fluctuation that can lead to ovarian cell damage. This reduction in ovulatory cycles lessens the opportunity for mutations that could result in cancer.
Convenience and Cost Savings
Beyond the health benefits, breastfeeding also offers some financial advantages. Not having to prepare bottles or buy formula can be a huge relief, especially during those late-night feedings.
The U.S. Surgeon General estimates that breastfeeding can save families between $1,200 to $1,500 in formula costs during the first year alone. Breastfeeding also reduces the need to purchase feeding supplies such as bottles, sterilizers, and bottle warmers, adding to the monetary benefits.
For mothers, this means more time to focus on bonding with their baby rather than preparing feeds. All these factors contribute to the long-term financial and practical advantages of breastfeeding, making it a win-win situation for both mother and child.
Tips for Successful Breastfeeding
Starting your breastfeeding journey can be challenging, but knowing a few key tips can make it smoother:
- Initiate Early: Begin breastfeeding as soon as possible after birth to take advantage of colostrum, which is rich in nutrients and antibodies. If possible, work with a lactation consultant to ensure you have a solid understanding of the best approach.
- Strong Latch: Help your baby latch on correctly to avoid nipple pain and promote efficient milk transfer. A good latch is important for both comfort and milk supply.
- Frequent Feeding: Feed your baby frequently, at least 8-12 times in 24 hours, especially in the first few weeks. This helps establish enough milk and a consistent supply.
- Comfortable Positioning: Find a comfortable breastfeeding position. Use pillows for support and ensure both you and your baby are relaxed. Remember that breastfeeding can be hard on your arms and wrists, so don’t hesitate to invest in the right pillow.
- Proper Diet and Hydration: Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet. If you get too dehydrated or malnourished, your body will likely slow down its breast milk production.
- Skin-to-Skin Contact: Spend a lot of time with your baby skin-to-skin. This encourages breastfeeding and helps regulate your baby’s body temperature and heart rate.
- Avoid Pacifiers and Bottles Initially: Hold off on introducing pacifiers and bottles in the early weeks to prevent nipple confusion. Focus on establishing breastfeeding first.
These are just a few simple tips. For more specific guidance and breastfeeding support, we highly recommend working with a lactation consultant or speaking to your healthcare provider.
Overcoming Breastfeeding Difficulties
Breastfeeding isn’t a walk in the park for many (if not most) mothers. There are many challenges women can face, from lactation issues to exhaustion, poor latches, low supply, breast engorgement, and soreness.
According to the CDC, about 60% of mothers do not breastfeed for as long as they intend to due to various challenges. Only about 25% of infants are exclusively breastfed through their first six months.
Of course, breastfeeding isn’t the right path for every momma or baby, and that’s perfectly fine. However, if you want to but are struggling to overcome certain breastfeeding challenges (on your part or the baby’s), help is available.
Start by talking to your healthcare provider. Be honest about your concerns, as well as any discomfort you may be experiencing. They’ll guide you toward strategies and products that can help make breastfeeding possible, productive, and comfortable.
You’re not alone in this! Don’t be afraid to ask questions and reach out for assistance. If you want, you can even look into signing up for a local breastfeeding class.
Visit Your Local Klingensmith’s for Your Breastfeeding Basics
Breastfeeding offers unparalleled benefits for both mother and child, from nutritional and immune support to fostering a deep emotional bond. While it can come with challenges, the right support and resources can make all the difference.
Klingensmith’s Drug Stores are here to help you every step of the way, ensuring you have access to the products and advice needed for a successful breastfeeding experience. At our various locations, we offer a range of services and products to support breastfeeding mothers such as lanolin creams, breast pumps, and more.
By choosing to breastfeed, you are giving your baby a great start in life and investing in your own health. Embrace this journey with confidence and know that Klingensmith’s is here to support you.
