Breast milk has absolutely one hundred percent of the nutrients that your baby requires, and best of all, it is completely free! You will never have to make a late night trip to the store to pick it up, and you do not have to worry about bringing bottles, nipples, and formula with you when you travel. Many women, however, do not breastfeed simply because they have encountered myths about breast milk that they believe to be true.
Breast milk, in and of itself, will provide your baby with absolutely all of the vitamins and minerals that she requires. It is a complete source of nutrition for your child, and does not need to be supplemented with any other ingredients. Breast milk is enough for babies! It is highly digestible for babies, more so than formula, and provides them with all the calories they need. Your body will produce enough breast milk for your child, although you may choose to supplement with formula if you want.
Breastfeeding is possible for working mothers. It is not just for stay at home moms! Women who work can purchase a high quality breast pump and manually pump their breast milk at work, saving the milk for the child to drink later from a bottle. This can be a way for other family members to feed the baby, as well. Many employers these days have a special room for nursing mothers to use for privacy. If your employer does not, talk with him or her about possible options.
Some people believe the old myth that babies who are nursed will grow up to be spoiled. This is simply false, short and sweet. There is absolutely no scientific link between breastfeeding and children who are spoiled! Breastfeeding can be an excellent way to bond with your child, and is an experience that many women grow to enjoy.
If you take medication, you will want to discuss breastfeeding with your doctor. Always follow his or her guidance! Some types of medications are compatible with breastfeeding, and others may be dangerous to your child. This applies to medications that you can purchase without a prescription, as well. And don’t forget about caffeine – if you drink coffee, some of the caffeine will enter your milk supply and be transmitted to your child. Keep this in mind!
Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits to your child, and to you, as well! For starters, you will find it easier to shed post-pregnancy pounds if you breastfeed. Because breastfed babies are healthier, you are less likely to miss work because of a sick child, as well. You are also less likely to struggle with postpartum depression. And the savings that you’ll enjoy as a result of breastfeeding cannot be overstated!
Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits to your child. You can feel proud of your choice to provide her with fully natural and complete nutrition! It is easy and much less hassle than heating up and sterilizing bottles and mixing formula, and it’s free, too!