Pregnancy

Breastfeeding

Did you know breastfeeding is the healthiest way for a woman to feed her baby. Breastfeeding has health benefits for both the mother and her child.

Breast milk gives babies all the nutrients’ babies need for the first 6 months of life. It helps protect them from infection and diseases. It also reduces mothers’ chances of getting certain diseases later in life. Breastfeeding allows you and your baby to get closer – physically and emotionally.

Why you should give breastfeeding a go

• Benefits add up week by week, so that each extra week of breast feeding can make a difference
• Breastfeeding makes a difference for the mother
• Helps you regain your shape
• Helps womb return to normal
• Reduces risk of pre-menopausal breast and ovarian cancer
• Breastfeeding helps develop a strong emotional bond with your child
• No special equipment — no mixing and no heating, no refrigeration
• Doesn’t cost a penny
• Can be expressed so all can join in the feeding
• Breastfeeding makes a difference for the baby
• Provides perfect nutrition for the first 6 months that is easy to digest
• Protects against stomach bugs and chest infections
• Less likely to develop allergic diseases such eczema and asthma
• Less likely to become constipated
• Reduces likelihood of becoming obese in later childhood

Where to find local support

Breastfeeding is a skill — everyone can do it with the right support.

 Buckinghamshire Healthcare have peer supporters on their maternity wards. Peer supporters are other mothers who have breastfed.  These peer supporters support new mums in beginning to breastfeed. They work alongside the midwives.

 There are hospital based clinics for breastfeeding support and drop in support in the community throughout Bucks. These clinics are run by midwives and health visitors.