Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Home  Contact Us  
College of Medicine Home
 

 

.....
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

 Untitled Document

 

 

THE BENEFITS OF BREASTFEEDING

Breastfeeding is the healthiest way to feed your baby and is best infant health and development.  Breast milk provides ongoing vital nutrients to protect your baby from illness. In addition, there are benefits for mothers who have gestational or Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends breastfeeding exclusively for 6 months, no formula or baby food unless a medical necessity, and continued breastfeeding for at least 12 months or longer if the mother and baby still enjoy the experience. Breastfeeding is best for you and baby for the following reasons.

The benefits for baby are:

  • Lowers the risk of diabetes and childhood obesity when older
  • Antibodies that help protect baby against ear, respiratory, and gastrointestinal infections.
  • The right proportion of protein, fat and carbohydrates your baby needs for growth and development
  • Lowers the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
  • Lowers the risk of childhood cancers, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and allergies, such as eczema and asthma
  • Better brain development and higher I.Q. scores
  • Better jaw and tooth development
  • Less constipation, diarrhea and gas

 The benefits for the mother are:

  • Decreased insulin requirements for most women (type 1 and type 2).
  • Lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes later for those with gestational diabetes - especially if you reach ideal body weight and exercise most days of the week
  • Lowers the risk of breast, ovarian, uterine and endometrial cancers
  • Lowers risk of osteoporosis
  • Promotes weight loss after pregnancy
  • Less money than paying for formula
  • No preparation, heating, clean-up or worry about spoiled formula. Mother's milk is always ready, warm, and convenient and germ free.
  • Less bleeding after birth with a quicker return of the uterus to normal size
  • More relaxed due to the release of the hormone oxytocin during breastfeeding
  • Increased emotional pleasure that helps with maternal/infant bonding.

For more information, take the breastfeeding class at University Hospital: 513.584.BABY (2229). If you have questions about breastfeeding or want to rent/purchase a good quality breast pump, please call our MIDWIVES at: 513. 584.1130.

Always consult your healthcare provider about your plan of care. The above information is for educational purposes only and is not to be used for individual treatment or diabetes self-management recommendations.