The benefits of breastfeeding, from a midwife

Today we are sitting down with Aliza Carr, head of education and midwife from @bumpnbub to discuss breastfeeding.

“It’s almost World Breastfeeding Week, an entire week dedicated to the promotion and support of breastfeeding, around the world.

As a midwife, working with breastfeeding mothers and families is a huge part of my life, and something I am so passionate about. I want to start this blog by saying that I know not every mother is able to or wants to breastfeed their baby, and the most important aspect, in my opinion, is that every mother and baby is supported and encouraged on her journey in motherhood – the way she chooses to parent and feed her baby.

Breastfeeding not only has benefits for a baby but for a mother as well – so let’s chat through some of the research on the incredible benefits of all things breastfeeding!

Some amazing benefits of breastfeeding (or expressing and providing this milk to your baby) include:

Lower rates of childhood illnesses

Babies who are breastfed have lower rates of gastrointestinal infections, respiratory infections, and ear infections – all common illnesses in children.

Decreases risk of food allergies later in life

Research states that a baby who is breastfed is less likely to develop food allergies once they begin eating solids, and into childhood.

Lowers risk of SIDS

Babies who are breastfed or fed breastmilk have a decreased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

Perfectly curated for your baby’s needs!

As your baby grows and encounters different life events like teething or even their first cold, your body produces milk especially for your baby and their needs. If you or your baby get sick at any point, your body will increase the white blood cell count in your breastmilk, to help protect your baby – isn’t that amazing!

Weight and BMI:

A breastfed baby has less chance of being overweight and obese later on in life, compared with formula-fed babies.

Bonding between mum and bub:

Breastfeeding helps promote attachment and connection between a mother and baby. When a mother breastfeeds, they release the hormone ‘oxytocin’ which helps them to fall in love with their baby.

Lower risk of certain illnesses to a mother

Breastfeeding reduces a mother’s risk of ovarian and breast cancer by a significant amount. The length of time that a woman breastfeeds is associated with a further decrease in risk. There is also a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure in women who breastfeed.

There are so many more amazing benefits, what are some of your favorites?”

Written by Aliza, midwife, and educator from Bumpnbub