You’re a new mom, holding your infant for the first time. You’ve waited nine long months to meet your daughter and as you look into her eyes, you think, “How can I give her everything she needs?”

One thing is for sure: You can breastfeed her. Ignore all the myths you may have heard over the years or read online, such as “formula-fed babies sleep better” and “breastfed babies are hungrier more often.”

Here’s the truth!

Breast milk is the best milk

Why? It contains all the vitamins and nutrients your baby needs in the first six months of life and includes disease-fighting elements that protect your baby from various illnesses. According to the Baby Center, “stomach viruses, lower respiratory illnesses, ear infections, and meningitis occur less often in breastfed babies and are less severe when they do happen.” They even reported that exclusive breastfeeding—no solid food, formula or water—for at least six months could offer the utmost protection.

What else?

Lowers infant mortality rate

A study conducted by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences concluded that infants who are breastfed have a 20 percent lower risk of dying between the ages of 28 days and 1 year.

Eases digestion for infants

For most newborns and even premature babies, breast milk is easier to digest than substitutes like formula. Because most formula is made with cow’s milk, it often contains elements that take a longer amount of time for babies to digest it.

Increases health and well-being for mothers

Beyond protecting your baby’s chance of developing infectious diseases or illnesses, breastfeeding can help reduce your risk of ovarian cancer or breast cancer (WHO, 2016). In addition, it can help reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage and high blood sugar levels. It can also help you lose weight quicker and easier.

When considering breastfeeding, take the time to evaluate the health advantages for your newborn, yourself and even your family.

Saint Francis also understands the difficulties that come with breastfeeding. We have Lactation Consultants on-site to help, and if there is a medical need for formula, the Neonatologist will advise you.

Visit our website or call 302.421.4449 to schedule your maternity tour today.