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Reasons to be proud

Reasons to be proud

This sheet lists just some of the ways that breastfeeding makes a difference to both mothers and babies.

If you would like further copies of this information sheet (Code 3242 P), click here; other sheets in the series can be obtained from NCT Shop at www.nctshop.co.uk or on 0845 8100 100

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Time breastfeeding For babyFor mother
First FeedHelps to stabilise baby's blood sugars and protect baby’s gutA great opportunity for the first skin to skin cuddle
1 DayThe antibodies in mother's colostrum provide natural immunity from infectionHelps womb to contract towards normal size
2-3 DaysSticky black meconium is cleared more readily from baby’s bowelInstant relief for hot, swollen breasts when your milk comes in
1 WeekTransition to world outside womb is easedFrequent feeds mean time to sit or lie down and for you to get to know each other
2 WeeksFood and drink always ready at the right temperature, adapting to the baby’s needsHormones help you get back to sleep after night feeds
4 WeeksFor premature babies lower risk factors for heart disease in later lifeSaves time sterilising and making up bottles
6 WeeksLess risk of chest infections now and up to 7 years oldBreastfeeding likely to be easier and you can go out and about without bottle feeding equipment
2 MonthsLower risk of food allergy at 3 years old if breastfed onlyReduced risk of ovarian cancer in later life
3 MonthsMuch less likely to get diarrhoea and need to be in hospital with gastroenteritisFewer visits to GP as baby less often ill
4 MonthsLower risk of developing eczema and asthmaFeeling of empowerment at having been solely responsible for growing your baby to four months
5 MonthsLess chance of succumbing to cot death and lower risk of urinary tract infectionsA lovely way to reconnect with the baby if you go to work
6 MonthsLower risk of ear infectionsLower risk of Type II diabetes in the long term
1 YearLower risk of becoming overweight in later life and lower risk factors for heart disease as an adultNo need to buy formula milk at all, saving at least £450 this year
2 YearsLikely to have higher average scores on intelligence testsExpect fewer visits to orthodontist when baby is a teenager;
Risk of breast cancer reduced by eight per cent