In honor of World Breastfeeding Week, it’s important to recognize the health benefits that breastfeeding offers to infants and mothers alike.

Breast milk is nature's intended first food for humans, providing the perfect blend of vitamins, protein, and fats essential for babies to thrive during their early months. It also includes crucial antibodies that help protect against viruses and bacteria. This incredible nourishment not only supports infants' immediate health and development, but also lays the foundation for long-term well-being.
 
Globally, breastfeeding has increased 10% over the last decade. In 2023, 48% of infants received breastfeeding, just shy of the World Health Assembly’s 50% target by 2025.

When babies are breastfed exclusively for at least six months:

• They’re less likely to develop ear infections, diarrhea, allergies, and respiratory illnesses.
• It reduces their risk of developing chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, childhood and
  adult obesity, celiac disease, and Crohn’s disease.
• It lowers their risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) by 64% and overall infant
  death risks by as much as 40%.
• It lowers their risk of childhood cancers like leukemia, and breast cancer as they age.

Breastfeeding is also incredibly beneficial in the short and long-term for mothers. When women breastfeed:

• It lowers their risk of type 2 diabetes, postmenopausal osteoporosis, and
  premenopausal breast and ovarian cancer.
• Their chances of developing rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, endometriosis, hypertension,
  and cardiovascular disease are reduced.
• On average, they get 45 more minutes of sleep.
• It helps them return to their pre-pregnancy weight faster by burning an extra 400
  calories per day.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Successful Breastfeeding
 

• Do reach out for assistance before your baby is born — attending a breastfeeding class
  is always a good place to start learning the ropes.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help — the earlier you let others know you’re struggling, the
  better equipped you’ll be to overcome any challenges.
• Don’t give up on the hardest day — breastfeeding takes work, and patience is key.
  Practice makes perfect!
• Do find a support system — breastfeeding support groups can be a great way for you to
  meet other mothers who are also breastfeeding and provide a safe space to talk about
  what you’re experiencing.
• Don’t blame yourself if it doesn’t come easy — breastfeeding doesn’t come as naturally
  as most people expect. Especially if you’re a new mom, there may be a steep learning
  curve for both you and your baby.
• Do seek support from a lactation consultant — there may be issues you may not be
  aware of. For example, a tongue tie is a common issue for babies that can’t maintain a
  deep latch. An experienced lactation consultant can recognize the problem and
  recommend solutions.

If you are breast or chestfeeding, you may be anxious about having enough milk for your baby. This is a common concern for new mothers. The California WIC Program and CDPH have put together an easy-to-use resource that addresses a lot of the questions parents may have.

You may also be worried about returning to work and how that can affect your supply. Low- wage workers receive less lactation support than those with higher incomes. A new brief provides information on ways the California Paid Leave policy and additional lactation accommodation laws can support low-wage workers in their breast and chestfeeding goals.

Finding the Right Resources

You’re not in this alone. There are a variety of community resources for breastfeeding support such as California’s Black Infant Health (BIH) Program. And if you are returning to work, plan and get information about nursing support after returning to the workforce. You can also speak to your supervisor about lactation accommodations to make the transition easier

If you have a friend or family member that is breastfeeding or considering it, you can lend a
hand by supporting their efforts. Little things like providing a meal, running an errand or
providing a short break can be a big help to new parents.

AltaMed offers a variety of services, from lactation consultants and educators to individual support, at Boyle Heights, El Monte, Goodrich, Orange, Santa Ana, and Children's Hospital LA sites. Call (888) 499-9303 for more information and to make an appointment today.