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The Advantages of Breastfeeding

Although it took me some time to establish breastfeeding because I had an unexpected cesarean section, it has been a process that I believe was well worth the time invested. Breastfeeding is not always easy, particularly breastfeeding after a c-section, and there are times when it would be simpler to pull out a bottle than to try to find a comfortable place to nurse. But in the end I believe there are many advantages to breastfeeding. I would like to share just a few with you.

Protection for Your Baby

The World Health Organization and American Academy
of Pediatrics both recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, and continued nursing up to a year old and beyond once solid foods are introduced. The reason? Breastfeeding offers protection for your baby against illness, infection and the development of allergies. On top of that, your breastmilk is perfectly balanced to provide your child with all of the nutrients he needs. Even in countries where women are malnourished themselves, their bodies are still able to produce perfectly balanced milk for their babies.

Weight Loss for You

As a new mother, you may be wondering how to lose the extra weight you put on during pregnancy. Another of the great benefits of breastfeeding is the fact that you burn up to an extra 500 calories per day producing milk. Obviously, this is the way nature intended! During pregnancy we accumulate fat stores on our body that will be used up during breastfeeding.

Birth Control

Another of nature's tricks! Breastfeeding offers a form of birth control in that nursing mothers often do not resume menstruation (and therefore ovulation, or the release of an egg), until after they finish nursing. Although a back-up form of birth control is probably a good idea, by nursing your baby you reduce the chance of becoming pregnant again quickly. I know in my case, I am quite pleased not to have a monthly visitor to contend with at the same time that I am getting adjusted to having a newborn around.

Economical

One of the best parts about breastmilk is that it's free! If you are already struggling to make ends meet with the arrival of a new baby, not having to buy formula can tip the scales in your favor.

No Muss, No Fuss

Once you get the hang of breastfeeding, you will find that it is simpler and easier than giving formula. There is no formula to prepare, no bottles to wash, and nothing to cart around with you other than a nursing cover if you are in public.

Hopefully I've given you something to chew on if you are trying to decide whether breastfeeding is for you. Don't get me wrong, in the early weeks it can be a struggle, and there are situations where it is impractical or inconvenient. And for some mothers it may be a physical impossibility. But if you have the ability, and can manage these bumps in the road, the journey is worth it in the end.

Learn more about this author, Kaarina St. John.
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