Breastfeeding is the most natural way to feed your baby. It provides all the nutrition your baby needs during the first six months of life. It satisfies their hunger and thirst at the same time, and helps to create a loving bond between you and your infant.
Many medical experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, strongly recommend breastfeeding exclusively (no formula, juice, or water) for your baby’s first six months.
Breastfeeding has numerous health benefits for babies, including a lower risk of:
- Ear infections
- Stomach viruses
- Diarrhea
- Respiratory infections
- Atopic dermatitis
- Asthma
- Obesity
- Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes
- Childhood leukemia, and
- Sudden infant death syndrome, (SIDS)
Breastfeeding is good for moms, too! Research suggests that breastfeeding might reduce your risk of ovarian cancer, osteoporosis, breast cancer, postpartum depression and developing diabetes. It also helps you lose the weight gained from pregnancy at a faster rate!
Simply put, breast milk has disease-fighting molecules called antibodies that help protect infants from germs and illness. Infant formula cannot match the exact chemical makeup of human milk, especially the cells, hormones, and antibodies that fight disease.
Talk to one of our doctors or midwives about the benefits of breastfeeding. At Carolina OB/GYN, we provide you with the knowledge you need to care for both you and your newborn.
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