Benefits for Babies

• Breast milk provides the nutrients babies need to grow and develop.
• Breast milkchanges as a baby grows and can meet the baby’s changing needs.
• Breast milkcontains antibodies and other protective parts that help support the baby’s immune system.
• Breastfeeding lowers the risk of some ear, respiratory (breathing), and gut infections.
• Breastfed babies have a lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome, also called SIDS.
• Breastfeeding may lower the risk of asthma, obesity, and type 2 diabetes later in life.
• The close contact during breastfeeding can help babies feel warm, calm, and secure.

Benefits for Mothers

• Breastfeeding releases hormones that help the uterus contract and reduce bleeding after birth.
• Breastfeeding may help the body recover after pregnancy and birth.
• Breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
• Breastfeeding may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.
• The close contact during breastfeeding can support bonding with the baby.

Benefits for Families

• Breast milk is available without mixing, measuring, or heating.
• Breastfeeding can save money on formula and feeding supplies.
• Breastfeeding may mean fewer illnesses and medical visits for the baby.
• Breastfeeding can make nighttime feeding and travel easier for some families.