Breastfeeding - Botsford Hospital

Breastfeeding Services

The experience of breastfeeding is special for so many reasons – the joyful time with your baby, the cost savings, and, most significantly, the health benefits for both mother and baby. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six month of an infant’s life and continued breastfeeding through 12 months or longer. Making the choice to breastfeed is a special gift that mothers can give to her newborn. It does take time, however, for new mothers to feel confident with breastfeeding and develop the skills that are necessary for success.

Benefits of Breastfeeding

For your baby

Breastmilk is uniquely designed for your baby. The first milk, colostrum is small in volume but rich in nutrients specifically designed for your baby’s first days of life.
A mother’s milk has just the right amount of nutrients to support her infant’s growth and development
Research indicates babies who are breastfed are healthier:

Reduction in ear infections
Fewer episodes of diarrheal illness
Lower rates of obesity
Decreased risk of asthma, diabetes, Crohn’s disease and different cancers

For mom

It takes calories to create breastmilk! Breastfeeding makes it easier to lose pregnancy weight and helps the uterus get back to its original size - giving mom a flatter stomach.
Breastfeeding lowers the risk of pre-menopausal breast and ovarian cancers, as well as the risk of brittle bones and hip fractures after menopause
Breastfeeding is free, thereby saving families money needed for other new baby expenses
Breastfeeding is convenient, it is always available and needs no preparation or clean up.
Breastfeeding hormones help mom relax and adjust to her new role. Research shows mothers who breastfeeding have lower rates of postpartum depression

Resources to help you succeed with breastfeeding
Despite all the known benefits to breastfeeding and their best intentions, many women struggle with feeding their baby, leading to frustration and early weaning. The Lactation Consultants at Botsford Hospital provide hands on assistance in the hospital following the birth of your baby. After discharge, outpatient services are available through our Breastfeeding Medicine Clinic.
Call our office at: (248) 471-8471 for further information or to make an appointment.

HealthSource Article:

2011

Twelve Reasons Every Mother Should Breastfeed

In This Section

Related Links