Breastfeeding is best for your baby. There is detailed information about the benefits of breastfeeding on the Ministry of Health website. Below are a few facts about breastfeeding:
Good for now, good for later – breastfeeding gives your baby vital antibodies (especially in colostrum – produced in the first few days) that helps protect them against illnesses like colds and chest infections. It can also reduce their chance of developing allergies, eczema and childhood diabetes.
Easy on the tummy – there’s a low risk of contamination. Breastfed babies are less likely to suffer from stomach upsets and constipation. Breast milk is easy for baby to digest because it is the perfectly designed food.
Just for mums – research has shown that women who breastfeed are less likely to develop breast and ovarian cancer.
The easier the better – no bottles to prepare, no kits to take with you, it’s always the right temperature, and best of all – it’s free!
Back to normal - it can help your uterus return to the normal size after birth sooner. It can also use up calories and make it easier to lose pregnancy weight. Breastfeeding may also delay the start of menstruation.
