Breastfeeding is one of the best and easiest ways to give your baby a healthy start in life, and studies show there are many long-term health benefits for both mother and baby. We here at Tri-City Medical Center are committed to supporting new mothers that choose to breastfeed their babies.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends mothers breastfeed their newborns exclusively for the first six months of the baby’s life to ensure proper nutrition and bonding. After the first six months, continued breastfeeding is recommended as appropriate complementary foods are introduced into the baby’s diet. The AAP concludes human milk is the best source of nutrition for feeding infants as well as other benefits.
There are many benefits of breastfeeding – both for mother and baby – we’ve compiled a list of some of the benefits:
- The milk produced by the mother’s body immediately after birth is called the colostrum. This unique form of milk contains antibodies to help the newborn’s digestive system, acts as a natural laxative, and helps clear excess bilirubin from the body to help prevent jaundice (yellowing of the skin).
- Breast milk promotes a healthy immune system by protecting the baby from viral and bacterial infections.
- Breast milk is easy for a baby to digest, plus it is all-natural.
- Breastfeeding promotes skin-to-skin contact between mom and baby, leading to emotional bonding.
- In mothers, breastfeeding releases a hormone called oxytocin which helps with the flow of milk and studies show has a calming effect for the mother.
- Breast milk is free! While some women may experience difficulties producing milk during breastfeeding, any amount of breast milk reduces the need for formula.
- Women who breastfeed have a lower risk of developing breast cancer, type 2 diabetes, ovarian cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis and postpartum depression.
- Nursing mothers may experience quicker weight loss after giving birth than non-nursing mothers.
New mothers are supported at Tri-City Medical Center following delivery through our various programs to ensure successful breastfeeding and newborn growth. If you would like to learn more about our breastfeeding support classes, please reach out to our Childbirth Services department at 760.940.5784 for more information or click on one of the events listed below.
Upcoming breastfeeding support classes
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