Referred to as the perfect baby food, breast milk is packed with the nutrients your baby needs. The first breast milk produced, called colostrum, is thicker and rich with nutrients and antibodies. After a few days, your milk will become thinner, yet still contain the nutrients your baby needs for growth and antibodies to protect their immune system.
In addition to nutrients and antibodies, breastfeeding offers many other benefits to mother and baby.
- Breastfeeding is convenient. If your baby is hungry, breast milk is available. There are no bottles to mix, wash, or sterilize.
- Breastfeeding helps your uterus. The release of oxytocin to make your uterus contract and return to its normal size.
- Breast milk is easier on brand new digestive systems. Breastfed babies often have less gas, fewer feeding problems, and less constipation.
- Breastfeeding aids mom’s health too. Women who breastfeed have a lower risk of Type 2 diabetes, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and postpartum depression.
- Breastfeeding saves money. Formula and feeding supplies add up over time.
Like during pregnancy, it’s important to eat a well-balanced diet and drink plenty of water while breastfeeding. Discuss calcium and vitamin supplements with your doctor.
Although breastfeeding is encouraged, it’s understandable that not every mother will have the ability (or the desire) to do so. Some mothers face challenges, such as engorgement, clogged milk ducts, or low/no milk supply. Today’s formulas are fortified with nutrients that babies need to thrive, so don’t be hard on yourself if breastfeeding doesn’t work for you.
For more breastfeeding tips, visit our Postpartum page. Contact your Capital Women’s Care provider should you have any questions or concerns about breastfeeding.
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