Should I breastfeed my baby?
The scientific evidence shows that breast milk provides the very best nutrition for babies. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies breastfeed for the first six months of life. After the first six months, parents are advised to continue to breastfeed through the baby’s first year, along with introducing other foods.
Breast milk changes as your baby grows. The breast milk that mothers produce as they nurse their growing babies will adjust to make sure the baby is getting the right amount of protein, sugar, fat and water.
What are the benefits of breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding offers many health benefits for your baby. Breastfeeding lowers the risks of:
- SIDS
- Asthma
- Childhood leukemia
- Childhood obesity
- Ear infections
- Type 2 diabetes
- Certain respiratory infections.
Breastfeeding health benefits for mother:
- Helps you get back to you pre-baby weight
- Emotional and physical benefits
- Lowers risk of Type 2 diabetes, breast cancer and ovarian cancer
New parents often have challenges with breastfeeding. MaineHealth is here to offer advice, guidance and support to make sure that your needs are met and breastfeeding your baby is a positive experience. We will work with you to figure out the methods and positions that work best for your body and your needs.
Breastfeeding classes
MaineHealth offers online breastfeeding classes for your convenience. View classes and register.
MaineHealth Family Birth Centers
MaineHealth family birth centers offer a nurturing, family-centered environment for safe and supportive labor, delivery and post-birth care.
