I just wrote this out for myself and thought it might be useful to share.
Below is a brief summary of why breastfeeding is best for your baby, yourself and society. If you are having difficulties, perhaps reading through this list will remind you of what a great job you are doing and encourage you to keep going.
Why is breastfeeding best for my baby?
Now:
• Breastmilk contains exactly what baby needs and is easier to digest than formula.
• It is comforting when the baby is distressed or ill.
• It helps protect against ear infections, gastro-intestinal infections, chest infections and urine infections.
• It helps protect against childhood cancers, eczema and asthma.
• It reduces the risk of food intolerances and allergies.
• It reduces the risk of cot death.
• Breastmilk has a constantly changing flavour and prepares the baby for a variety of tastes later on.
• It encourages correct teeth and jaw development and speech development is more advanced.
In the future:
• It helps protect against obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
• It may help increase IQ.
Why is breastfeeding best for me?
After the birth:
• It helps you to bond with your baby.
• It helps your uterus to return to normal and reduces the risk of heavy bleeding.
• The milk-making hormone prolactin has a calming effect and helps you to sleep better at night.
While you are breastfeeding:
• It can help you lose weight.
• It is convenient, labour saving and always available.
• It saves on average about £500 per year.
In the future:
• It helps to protect you against breast, uterine and ovarian cancers.
• It may help increase bone density and prevent osteoporosis.
• It may help protect against heart disease.
Why is breastfeeding best for society?
• It saves healthcare costs as breastfed babies generally need fewer doctor appointments, prescriptions and hospitalizations.
• It contributes to a more productive workforce as children who were breastfed are ill less often and so their parents miss less work.
• It is better for the environment as no packaging or processing is involved.
hang in there - it's worth it in the end.
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