Congratulations! Here are a few things you might find helpful whilst pregnant.
Why is breastfeeding important?
Breastfeeding is the normal way to feed a baby and your baby’s good health and development depend on breastmilk. The World Health Organisation recommends exclusive breastfeeding for about the first 6 months and continued breastfeeding alongside other foods for at least the first year. This will give your baby the best start in life. However, any amount of your breastmilk will always be good for your baby’s health and wellbeing.
Remember A, B, C D
Breastfeeding protects against:
- Asthma
- Breast cancer
- Coughs and colds
- Diabetes
Breastfeeding also helps protect your baby from:
- Severe diarrhoea and vomiting
- Chest infections
- Eczema
- Sudden infant Death Syndrome (cot death)
- Ear infections
- Obesity
AND if you aren’t convinced already, breastfeeding also helps protect you from:
- Ovarian cancer
- Osteoporosis (weak bones later in life)
- Obesity (helps you lose weight)
If you decide not to breastfeed your baby, it is important that you are given information about preparing and feeding formula milk as safely as possible. Please discuss this with a member of your midwifery or health visiting team and remember you can always change your mind!