facts

Breastfeeding is a completely natural method of feeding your baby, so we think that it’s a shame that this natural, personal and private act has recently become sexualised and a debated topic.

Regardless of how you feel, women have been breastfeeding their young for centuries, and we hope that this long continues.

If you are pregnant and considering your options, did you know that:

Breastfeeding will help your baby to fight off infections

After a number of studies, scientists have found that breastfed babies can experience real short term benefits thanks to their mother’s milk. One of the many benefits include being fed antibodies via their mothers breast milk, helping to fight off nasties such as diarrhoea and chest infections.

Breastfeeding encourages skin to skin contact

When you nurse your baby, you will be bonding in a very effective way. Skin-to-skin contact is well known for its bonding powers as well as regulating temperature, soothing and helping to steady your baby’s breathing.  Not only will your baby feel more at ease and calm, breastfeeding has the ability to help with postnatal depression.

Breastfeeding helps you to bounce back

By breastfeeding, you will be burning off calories from the comfort of your sofa! Breastfeeding will burn up to 500 calories a day, helping you get back into shape after pregnancy. However, it is advisable that you look at your diet whilst breastfeeding to ensure that you’re eating the right foods to make the best milk. Speak to your midwife if you want more information.

Final thought

Overall, having a happy and healthy mum and baby is the most important thing – the rest will all fall into place!

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