9 Benefits of Breastfeeding

9 Benefits of Breastfeeding

The American College of OB/GYNs and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that for the first 6 months of life, a baby should be exclusively breastfed. This means that if possible, breast milk should be the only form of nutrition for your baby, no other liquids or foods.

There are many benefits of breastfeeding both to mom and baby! Here are 9 of those benefits.

Benefits to mom:

1. Women who breastfeed have lower chances of developing breast and ovarian cancer.

2. Breastfeeding can reduce the rate of developing Type 2 Diabetes and lower your blood pressure.

3. Breastfeeding may make it easier to lose the weight that is gained during pregnancy.

4. When you breastfeed after delivery, it causes your uterus to contract, which can decrease the amount of bleeding that you have postpartum.

5. Breastfeeding is FREE, so it helps save money on formula!

Benefits to baby:

1. Breast milk has the perfect ratio of protein, carbohydrates, fats, sugar and water that is necessary for your baby’s growth and development.

2. Breast milk is easier to digest than formula, resulting in less feeding problems like gas and constipation.

3. Breast milk contains antibodies which can help boost your baby’s immunity and protect the baby against certain infections.

4. Breastfed babies have a lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

By the way, this week is World Breastfeeding week! If you are having difficulty with breastfeeding or need advice, check out La Leche League at https://www.llli.org for tons of great resources or reach out to one of the providers at Premier Ob-Gyn for help!

Author

Matthew Wollenschlaeger, MD, FACOG Matthew Wollenschlaeger, MD, FACOG, is a board-certified OB/GYN who joined the Premier Obstetrics and Gynecology team in 2020. He is proud to provide high-quality care to the women throughout Maitland and Oviedo, Florida. Originally from Ocala, Florida, Dr. Wollenschlaeger attended undergraduate school at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Biochemistry. He returned to Florida to earn a Master of Science degree from the University of South Florida. Dr. Wollenschlaeger completed his medical degree at The University of South Florida College of Medicine in Tampa, Florida. He went on to complete his OB/GYN training at Orlando Health, Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies in Orlando, where he was the Chief Quality Resident. At Premier Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Wollenschlaeger enjoys being able to offer the full spectrum of women’s healthcare and is dedicated to treating women at all stages of life.