The benefits of breastfeeding
There are many benefits of breast milk for you and your baby. The World Health Organisation guidance recommends:
- exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months
- continued breastfeeding for up to two years and beyond
- the introduction of appropriate solid foods from 6 months
The longer that you breastfeed, the greater the benefits including:
- meeting your baby's nutritional requirements
- ensuring your baby has a healthy gut and immune system
- reducing the risk of gastroenteritis, asthma, eczema, coughs and colds
- reducing your baby's risk of allergies, leukaemia, SIDS and childhood obesity
- reducing the risk of diabetes and heart disease later in life
- strong emotional bonds between you and your baby
- lower risks of breast and ovarian cancer, osteoporosis heart disease
- weight management after giving birth
You base your decision on how to feed your baby on what you feel is right for you and your baby. You may choose not to breastfeed, or it may not be possible due to medication or illness. We will support you in your decisions.
Breastfeeding and SIDS
Breastfeeding for even a short time can protect for your baby. Both partial and exclusive breastfeeding have been shown to be associated with a lower sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) rate, but exclusive breastfeeding was associated with the lowest risk.
SIDS risk is halved in babies who are breastfed for at least 2 months.
Don't over wrap your baby, overheating your baby can increase the risk of SIDS it is better for your baby to be cool than over heated. The ideal room temperature for your baby is between 16 to 20 degrees centigrade. Find further information on the Lullaby Trust website.
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