A New Beginning

Breastfeeding CHAPTER 9: Breastfeeding

Welcome to Your Breastfeeding Journey

You may know that breastfeeding has benefits for your baby. You’re providing the best source of nutrition for your new baby for as long as you choose to breastfeed. Plus, breastfeeding promotes bonding and contributes to your baby’s emotional development. Many moms assume breastfeeding will come naturally. Learning to breastfeed takes time, be patient with yourself and practice breastfeeding often. The hospital is the perfect time to get started and ask questions while you have help. Learn all you can from the experts, and as time progresses, you will feel more confident.

BENEFITS OF BREAST MILK AND BREASTFEEDING

For Your Baby

For You

• Decreases sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) • Decreases respiratory and diarrheal disease • Reduces ear infections • Decreases obesity later in childhood

• Decreases insulin

• Decreases juvenile, insulin-dependent diabetes • Decreases risk of childhood cancer • Protects against allergies

• Aids weight loss and helps uterus to return to pre-pregnancy size • Decreases risk of osteoporosis later in life • Reduces risk of breast, uterine, endometrial, and ovarian cancer

use in breastfeeding moms with diabetes • Economic savings — formula can cost over $2,000 during baby’s first year

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Chapter 9: Breastfeeding