Breastfeeding: Benefits for the Mother

Breastfeeding: Benefits for the Mother  

Breastfeeding is one of the most natural and beneficial acts a mother can do for her child but in today's society there are many people who feel breastfeeding is unnecessary. There are proven benefits for the mother and the child which include antibodies which protect an infant at birth to the exclusive nutrients only found in a mother's milk which have been shown to prevent a number of childhood diseases. By choosing to breastfeed a mother can impact the present and future health of her baby. Breastfeeding is a wonderful option for mothers with newborn babies. There are many benefits for a new mother when they decide to breastfeed and we want to discuss just a few of those benefits. 

Reduces the risk of certain cancers: 

One major benefit for the a mother who breastfeeds is the reduction of the mother's risk for contracting breast, ovarian and cervical cancer. And let's be honest, no one wants to get cancer. If mothers can reduce their risk of these types of cancer by breastfeeding then we must certainly advocate breastfeeding. 

Protects the mother from osteoporosis later in life: 

Another benefit for the mother would be protecting the mother against osteoporosis and hip fractures later in life. Milk contains calcium and calcium builds bone density. By breastfeeding the baby, the mother builds up her protection from the afore mentioned items. The mother is providing her baby with nutrients but also supplying herself with benefits for the future. 

Helps with weight: 

Next, would be that breastfeeding helps return the mothers body to a pre-pregnancy weight quicker than those mothers who do not breastfeed. When a mother's body manufactures milk they pull the calories needed to make the milk from fat stores. Actually, they pull about half of the calories needed to make the milk from those fat stores. And studies have shown that a nursing mother can burn about 500 to up to 1,500 calories per day by producing milk. 

Costs of breastfeeding: 

Another benefit includes costs. Breast milk is free! Mothers that breastfeed their child do not have to spend money on formula for their babies and they can save that money they would have used on formula and use it on something else that their baby or family might need at the time. Saving money by breastfeeding can probably save you thousands of dollars per year. If you do decide to breastfeed you could invest in a nursing bra or pump but these are not absolutely necessary but rather a luxury. 

Your baby's health is better: 

As mothers, we care about the health of our baby. Every single one of us wants a healthy child and would never want our child to be in pain or not feel well. If you breastfeed you are ensuring that your baby receives proper nutrients for their tiny bodies. Breastfed babies are sick less which reduces health care cost and doctor visits, thus saving you even more money! 

Natural Birth Control: 

Breastfeeding is a natural form of birth control and helps space out pregnancies. While breastfeeding you are helping delay the return of fertility and spacing out these subsequent pregnancies. If you are mother who does not want to return to being pregnant right away then breastfeed your child so you can help plan your own family. 

Bonding with your baby:

Breastfeeding develops a special emotional relationship and bonding with your child! The love you develop for your baby and the love they develop for you is a wonderful emotion. You will develop a bond with your child that will last for a lifetime. Your baby will thank you as they get older that you took the time to breastfeed them and show them how much you cared for them by taking the time to ensure they had proper nutrients in their bodies. 

Others can help you: 

A mother can pump their milk ahead of time and save them in bottles so the baby can have this milk later. By doing pumping your milk and saving it for later you allow time for the father or other family members to help feed your baby while still ensuring that your baby receives the proper nutrition. 

Breastfeeding is a wonderful gift that mothers and babies can share together. If you are considering breastfeeding do not hesitate to ask others around you for help. You can also contact your local lactaction consultant, whom you can find at most hospitals. Also, do not hesitate to ask your OB/GYN any questions, that's what they are there for! Do not pass up the opportunity to breastfeed your baby. You will be extremely excited that you are providing your child with the best option for them and your child will be healthy and thankful as the years grow by. 

Resources: 

www.breastfeeding.com

www.motheringfromtheheart.com

www.womenshealth.com