Breastfeeding
Breast milk is produced naturally by women and provides the basic nutrition for a baby during the first several months of life. If possible, all new mothers should try breastfeeding their babies. Why breastfeed your child?
- Breast milk can provide a baby with water, vitamins, proteins and higher levels of fat — all important nutrients to help keep your baby healthy and to ensure proper growth and weight gain.
- Breast milk is the perfect food for your new baby because it protects babies against colds, diarrhea and allergies. Breastfeeding keeps you and your baby healthy!
- Breastfeeding mothers are eligible to participate in WIC longer than non-breastfeeding mothers.
- Breastfeeding can help reduce SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
- Breastfeeding helps you lose weight.
- Breastfeeding is ideal for building the mother/baby bond.
- Breastfeeding costs less than formula.
Breast milk has three different stages:
Colostrum:
Occurs during pregnancy and lasts for several days after the birth of the baby. It is either yellowish or creamy in color and very thick. This milk will give the baby important nutrients to help protect against illnesses.
Transitional Milk:
Usually lasts for about two weeks and occurs after colostrum. Transitional milk will provide more protein and calories to help your baby grow.
Mature Milk:
The majority of this milk is water that will keep your baby hydrated. This is the last stage in breast milk.
Additional Information:
If you want to breastfeed but have to work or go to school, call 1-800-251-BABY (2229) for information on how to handle the situation. For more information on breast pumps, contact the nearest WIC clinic or contact LaLeche League 1-800-LALECHE.
