Why is exclusive breastfeeding important for you and your baby?
Some benefits for your baby include:
- Increased protection against respiratory infections, allergies and bacterial meningitis.
- Lower risk of getting ear and urinary tract infections.
- Easier digestion (breast milk is easier on baby's intestines).
- Decreased likelihood of constipation, diarrhea or reflux.
- Enhanced brain development.
- Lower likelihood of obesity as teenagers and adults.
Some benefits for you include:
- A quicker recovery after childbirth, reduced risk of postpartum bleeding and a higher likelihood of returning to your pre-pregnancy weight than mothers who formula feed.
- Increased self-confidence and feelings of closeness and bonding with your baby. Physical contact is important to newborns and can help them feel more secure, warm and comforted.
- A lower likelihood of developing ovarian and premenopausal breast cancers, reduced osteoporosis and risk for long-term obesity.
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