Even with the convenience and the availability of formula, many mothers still prefer to breastfeed their babies as much as possible. Most doctors also recommend exclusively breastfeeding for at least the first six months if possible. Additionally, you can check this free baby feeding guide for more info.
The benefits of breastfeeding for the baby are quite apparent. But did you know that the mother also gets a lot of advantages from it?
Let’s explore some of these benefits.
1. Reduced Cancer Risk
Research shows that women who manage to breastfeed their children have a lower risk of getting ovarian cancer. This lowered risk applies both before and after menopause. That’s certainly a great piece of news. So, let’s touch upon why this happens.
Basically, breastfeeding suppresses ovulation. This makes it harder (though not impossible at all) to conceive during the breastfeeding period. This suppression also means that the woman gets a reduced exposure to estrogen. The result is that the chances of developing certain cancers go down.
2. Strong Mental Health
One might think that constantly catering to a squalling baby’s demands will have you mentally weakened and drained. While this is true, the body makes up for this by producing certain hormones while you’re breastfeeding. The most well-known of these is oxytocin which relieves stress and enhances the feeling of love and trust.
Cholecystokinin is another hormone that increases when you breastfeed. This gives a sedating, satisfied feeling. Babies tend to drift off while they’re suckling and mothers are also likely to experience sleepiness at this time. It’s a signal for you to sleep. So, you should go for that extra nap. Plus, breastfeeding mothers manage to get more sleep as they always have a supply of fresh milk for the baby at just the right temperature.
With more sleep and the correct level of hormones, a woman who breastfeeds is less likely to go through postpartum depression. Even so, a new mother should look for breastfeeding support near New York offers in case she’s having trouble.
3. A Quicker Recovery
When a woman gives birth, she goes through a major ordeal both physically and emotionally. After the delivery, she needs some time to rest and recuperate on every level. This might mean asking others for help with home chores, looking after the kids, etc.
As we’ve mentioned above, the production of oxytocin goes up when a mother breastfeeds her baby. Oxytocin strengthens the emotional bond between the mother and child. It also performs another important function: getting the uterus back to its regular size. Besides, breastfeeding can help in preventing osteoporosis in the long run. While the lactation period might result in a small bone mass loss, the bone density will go back to normal after you wean the baby. It might take up to six months. But it does happen.
4. Fewer Chances Of Diabetes
Diabetes is becoming more common now. The risk increases while a woman is pregnant. However, breastfeeding can help to reduce that risk. Even if a woman has Type 2 diabetes, she can improve the insulin sensitivity symptom by breastfeeding her baby.
If you’ve developed gestational diabetes, breastfeeding will help to get your levels back to normal. This will lower your chances of developing Type 2 diabetes later on. Plus, the chances of your baby getting diabetes are also lower now.
The Takeaway
Breastfeeding a baby creates an additional bond between them and the mother. Yes, it’s not easy to keep up with the constant demands. But the result is worthwhile. So, stay strong and keep feeding but make sure to consult a lactation specialist and get support if you need it.
I am Jones Smith and I am here to share my experience and expertise in writing. I’ve been writing articles for different publications for more than 6 years. I have a varied range of interests and that’s why I love blogging about different topics. In my opinion, blogging is a lot like acting, and I consider writing blog posts as an acting job. I am an entrepreneur by heart and there is nothing big or small when it comes to starting a business.