Most of us know that breastfeeding is good for both mother and child, so this short article is really just a recap of some of the key benefits. The key learning is that breast milk is “designed” for new-born infants and so it is really the ideal nourishment.
Benefits for baby:

  • Better immunity and fewer infections like gastroenteritis, pneumonia, meningitis, ear infections, whooping cough, etc.
  • Reduced incidence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
  • Less risk of developing allergic conditions like asthma, eczema, and allergic rhinitis.
  • Breastfed babies are less likely to be under-nourished (in truth this is less relevant in affluent circumstances, but it can be a very real issue in conditions of poverty).

Benefits for mother:

  • Breastfeeding encourages the uterus to contract and this reduces post-partum bleeding.
  • Breastfeeding burns calories and helps with post-pregnancy weight loss (this is usually beneficial and desirable, but in some cases, might not be).

Benefits for both:

  • Breastfeeding encourages the development of a close bond between mother and infant. It is thought that this can produce significant emotional benefits for mother and baby, some of which may be long-term (e.g. into adulthood for the new-born).
  • Breastfeeding is generally easier and more convenient, which can be a major plus during what can often be a busy and tiring time.

The above are by no means the only benefits but they are some of the most important. It remains true that “breast is best”.
NOTE: While all of the above is true it is also true that modern infant formula-milk is better than ever before and as a result the “gap” between breastfeeding and formula feeding is narrow. We should also be aware that some mothers cannot breastfeed or struggle to breastfeed, for health or practical or other reasons. Some mothers must use formula. There was a time when society tended to be critical of any mother who did not breastfeed. Such attitudes are short-sighted, unhelpful, and often quite hurtful. Yes, let us encourage breastfeeding but let us also remember that it is a mother’s choice and it is certainly not a crime to use formula milk.

Mothers who breastfeed to somewhere between 6 and 12 months or so, will be giving their babies the best possible start in life. Where it is possible to do so, this should be encouraged while always respecting the choices and decisions of the mother.

Written by Dr Colin Burns