Breastfeeding is a vital aspect of mother and baby care, offering numerous benefits for both. It provides the optimal nutrition for infants, supporting their growth and development, and offers health benefits for mothers as well.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) and UNICEF’s recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, with continued breastfeeding along with complementary foods for up to two years or beyond.

Benefits for Babies

• Optimal Nutrition: Breast milk provides the perfect balance of nutrients, including proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals essential for an infant’s growth and development. It is uniquely tailored to meet the changing needs of the baby
• Immune System Support: Breast milk contains antibodies, living cells, enzymes, and hormones that help protect infants from infections and diseases. This can lead to a reduced risk of respiratory illnesses, ear infections, gastrointestinal infections, and other conditions.
• Reduced Risk of Chronic Conditions: Breastfed infants have a lower risk of developing chronic conditions later in life, such as asthma, obesity, type 1 diabetes, and certain types of leukemia.
• Cognitive Development: Studies have shown that breastfeeding is associated with improved cognitive development and higher IQ scores. The fatty acids in breast milk, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are crucial for brain development.
• Digestive Health: Breast milk is easier for infants to digest compared to formula. It helps establish a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a role in digestion and immune function.
• Emotional Bonding: The physical closeness, skin-to-skin contact, and eye contact during breastfeeding strengthen the emotional bond between mother and baby, promoting a sense of security and attachment.

Benefits for Mothers

• Reduced Risk of Postpartum Depression: Breastfeeding is associated with a lower risk of postpartum depression, likely due to the release of hormones such as oxytocin that promote bonding and relaxation.
• Health Benefits: Breastfeeding reduces the risk of several health conditions for mothers, including breast and ovarian cancers, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
• Natural Contraception: Breastfeeding can delay the return of menstruation and ovulation, known as lactational amenorrhea, which can help with spacing pregnancies.
• Weight Loss: Producing breast milk requires energy, which can help mothers lose weight gained during pregnancy more quickly.
• Convenience and Cost Savings: Breast milk is always available, at the right temperature, and free of charge, making it a convenient and economical feeding option.