Why is breast milk good for babies? The protective properties in human milk, like enzymes to help breakdown fats and proteins, promote the ideal rate of growth along with the brain and nervous system development which is very unique to human babies.
What else should I feed my baby for the first few months? Only breast milk is needed for the first six months. Any amount of breastfeeding is better than none. Even with exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months as a goal, the challenges to achieve that goal are real. San Juan Regional Medical Center is proud to be working with the community to overcome some of the barriers that breastfeeding mothers encounter, and provide the opportunity for the next generation to be a healthier one.
Is there any benefit from breastfeeding for moms?
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- Breastfeeding decreases the risk of cancer, diabetes, osteoporosis, and heart disease
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- Hormone boost aids bonding and attachment to infant
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- Naturally manages child spacing by delayed return of fertility
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- Speeds recovery from childbirth
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- Breastfeeding can save over $2,000 in the first year of life! That’s the average cost of formula for the minimum time recommended by pediatricians
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I will be returning to work while I am still breastfeeding my baby. I don’t want my employer to worry about my productivity. Are there any benefits for employers?
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- Breastfeeding mothers have healthier infants and miss less work for sick days.
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- Insurance plans spend fewer healthcare dollars on breastfed children
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- Higher morale and company loyalty resulting in higher retention rates
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How will breast milk benefit my baby?
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- Higher IQ – The perfect mix of nutrients and sensory stimulation promotes optimal brain development
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- Less orthodontic care needed due to mouth and jaw development which aids tooth alignment
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- Same day immune protection that a mother’s mature immune system produces
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Is breastfeeding easy, and does it come natural? Despite all the research, statistics, and expert recommendations, breastfeeding doesn’t often just happen on its own. Like any motor skill involving specific skills, breastfeeding is a learned practice which takes trial and error, modification, and sometimes an experienced coach. This learned skill involves not just one, but two unique bodies required to work together in unison. Learn more about our breastfeeding support groups, click here.
Learn more Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, click here