Health Benefits of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding gives our babies a healthy start in life, but it also gives mothers many health benefits as well.  Studies are overwhelmingly positive about the direct physical and emotional benefits of breastfeeding to the mother.

Breastfeeding is linked to lowered risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis.  Skin-to-skin contact from breastfeeding produces the “closeness hormone” oxytocin, which promotes emotional health and reduces post-partum depression.  Breastfeeding mothers also tend to return to their pre-baby weight faster.

Other factors also indirectly benefit a breastfeeding mother’s wellbeing.  Because her baby has a stronger immune system, the entire family is likely to get sick less.  Being sick less often saves families, and society, a great deal of money over the course of the families lifetime.  Speaking of money, breastfeeding is also a more economical option overall!

Breastfeeding is a gift to your child and yourself.  Take the time to relax and enjoy your healthy breastfeeding habit.  It is one addiction all doctors recommend!