Fact Sheet - Breastfeeding

• Babies who are breastfed have less diarrhea, fewer lower respiratory infections, fewer ear infections, less bacterial meningitis, improved protection against certain childhood cancer, and improved mental development.

• Advantages to the breastfeeding mother include: less bleeding after giving birth, reduced risk of ovarian and breast cancer, reduced risk of anemia and osteoporosis, quicker weight loss after giving birth, less bone decay and hip fractures in older age, and monetary savings.

• An infant whose mother uses illegal drugs, has untreated active tuberculosis, or has HIV should not be breastfed.

• Babies who are receiving enough of their mother's milk will be wetting six or more diapers and stooling two or more times daily by 72 hours (3 days) after birth.

• Infants who are breastfed have reduced incidence and severity of ear infections, pneumonia, and diarrhea. Infants who are breastfed are less likely to develop diabetes, obesity, SIDS, asthma, and allergies.

• It is strongly recommended that women breastfeed for the first year after birth, but even a few weeks of breastfeeding is beneficial compared to no breastfeeding.

• Women who breastfeed lower their risk of ovarian and breast cancer. In addition, adults who were breastfed as infants have less risk of developing diabetes and heart disease.

 

• Lack of breastfeeding is a risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

 

• Breastfeeding helps mothers recover from childbirth.

 

• Breastfeeding is economical and cost-effective. If a woman breastfeeds her infant, the family saves approximately $855 by not needing to purchase formula during the first year.

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