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Medical Encyclopaedia

Check out the A to Z guide of medical conditions. Read up about the most common medical conditions, their symptoms and find out what treatment and support is available.

D

Diabetes

Breastfeeding

Introduction:

Breastfeeding is a totally natural way of feeding your baby and provides all the energy, fluid and nutrients that your baby needs for growth and development during the first six months of life.

1. What are the benefits of breastfeeding?
2. What if I have trouble breastfeeding?

What are the benefits of breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding has numerous benefits for both mother and baby. Breast milk contains special proteins and antibodies which help protect your baby against infection.

Breastfeeding can lower the risk of diarrhoea and tummy upset in babies and help protect against:

• coughs, colds, ear and chest infections
• Urinary infections
• Allergies, asthma and eczema
• Childhood diabetes
• Obesity

Breastfeeding not only has benefits for the baby, but it can also lower your risk of ovarian and breast cancer, reduce the likelihood of osteoporosis (bone thinning), and can also help you return to your pre-pregnancy weight more easily.

Breastfeeding is convenient; it is always there and always the right temperature.

There are no bottles to sterilise, and you can feed the baby anywhere.

Breastfeeding can be very satisfying and calming. It helps mother and baby bond, both physically and emotionally.

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What if I have trouble breastfeeding?

Common breastfeeding problems include engorgement, blocked milk ducts, mastitis, problems with the baby latching on and cracked or sore nipples.

If you have problems, talk to your health visitor or midwife or a local breastfeeding support group. Remember that breastfeeding is a learned skill – for both you and your baby – and many problems can be overcome with the right advice.

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Clickthrough information and support links:

La Leche League
Association of Breastfeeding Mothers
Breastfeeding Network
NCT
Breastfeeding - Direct Gov

  References:

This article has been written for PruHealth by Dr Foster Research. All Dr Foster Research (DFR) health content is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional.