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0 - 3 months

6 benefits of breastfeeding for mom

15 May 2022 | By Glynis Horning

Breastfeeding is one of the best decisions you can make for your baby – and yourself.

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Breastfeeding gives your baby the best possible start in life (see 6 benefits of breast-feeding for baby), but it’s just as good for you.

Some mothers experience difficulties, but with support and guidance it becomes second nature and the benefits are huge.

1. It speeds your recovery

When you breastfeed you release the hormone oxytocin, which prompts you uterus to shrink to its pre-baby size, and can help lessen uterine bleeding after delivery, says Esmé Hough of La Leche League South Africa, an NGO that provides breastfeeding support and training.

2. It helps you lose weight

Breastfeeding increases your energy needs by about 2000kJ a day. It may also increase your appetite, especially in the first few months when hormones fluctuate, but from three to six months after birth, moms who breastfeed have been shown to shed more weight than those who don’t. Of course, you still need to eat sensibly and get regular moderate exercise to maintain a healthy weight.

3. It boosts your general health

Numerous studies suggest that women who have breastfed have a lower risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and even osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis later in life – the longer you breastfeed, it seems, the greater the benefit.

Some studies also suggest it may give protection against metabolic syndrome, a collection of conditions that raise your risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

4. It boosts your mental health

Moms who develop post-natal depression soon after delivery may struggle to breastfeed and do it for a shorter period. However, moms who breastfeed have been found to have less risk of post-natal depression, possibly partly due to oxytocin, which seems to have long-term effects on reducing anxiety.

5. It saves you time

Once you’ve established the knack, feeding is instant – no formula to mix, no bottles to wash and sterilise. When you’re sleep deprived in those early weeks, or out and about with baby, this can be particularly appreciated.

6. It helps you bond with baby

The skin-to-skin contact and long spells of gazing into each other’s eyes can strengthen that special bond, says Hough – as can the oxytocin, which affects regions of the brain collected with nurturing and attachment, and the other breastfeeding hormone, prolactin, which also promotes relaxation.

For breast-feeding support and advice, contact La Leche League South Africa
 

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