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Why breastfeed?

Breastfeeding is good for both mother and child. Children who breastfeed have, on average: a lowered risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS); better digestion; a lowered risk of inflammatory bowel disease; increased protection from gastroenteritis; less diarrhea; fewer allergies in later life; reduced rates of asthma; a lowered risk of diabetes; a lowered risk of childhood cancers, including leukemia and lymphoma; fewer ear and chest infections; fewer urinary tract infections (UTIs); higher intelligence, and; less likelihood of obesity in later life. These benefits 'increase by dose' - any amount of breastfeeding is beneficial and more is better. Breastfeeding can help the mother, both in the short and the long term. Breastfeeding: helps contract the uterus just after birth, which minimizes postpartum bleeding; reduces maternal response to stress; reduces the chance of postpartum depression; is free, readily available, requires no container, requires less equipment and preparation; reduces the likelihood of ovarian cancer, uterine cancer and breast cancer; reduces the likelihood of type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease; is a form of birth control; helps with loss of 'baby weight' and maintaining a healthy weight after birth; helps you bond with your baby; helps baby sleep better (less fuss when feeding at night), and; helps baby calm down in stressful situations (such as plane flights).

FAQ Frequently asked questions

Can all mothers breastfeed?

Almost all mothers can breastfeed. Although breastfeeding is a natural act, it is also a learned skill. While some mothers and babies enter easily into breastfeeding, others can have trouble and can benefit from advice from experienced healthcare professionals …

Does breastfeeding hurt?

Breastfeeding is generally not painful. Pain is a sign that breastfeeding may not be progressing well. In this case you should seek assistance as the baby may not be attaching properly to the nipple.

Can women with small/large breasts breastfeed?

The size of a woman's breasts does not determine the ability to breastfeed.

What are the benefits of breastfeeding for my baby?

Children who breastfeed have, on average: a lowered risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS); better digestion; a lowered risk of inflammatory bowel disease; increased protection from gastroenteritis; less diarrhea; fewer allergies in …

What are the benefits of breastfeeding for me?

Breastfeeding can help the mother, both in the short and the long term. Breastfeeding: helps contract the uterus just after birth, which minimizes postpartum bleeding; reduces maternal response to stress; reduces the chance of postpartum …

How do I know that my baby is getting enough milk?

A healthy and well-fed baby, that has attached properly to the nipple, will stop feeding when it is no longer hungry. A well-fed baby gains weight, has several wet nappies a day, and is calm and happy.

How often should I breastfeed my baby?

Today, experts agree that your baby will let you know when it needs to feed. Healthy newborn babies will display 'feeding cues' when they are ready to feed. They will 'search' for the breast, moving their heads, sticking out their tongues and putting …

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About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 06 Jul 2015
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.1 out of 5
Votes: 126 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Supporting a breastfeeding mother

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