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.