Breastfeeding
How Long
Should I Breastfeed?
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months of a baby’s life. Breastfeeding should continue up to the baby’s first birthday as new foods are introduced. You can keep breastfeeding after the baby’s first birthday for as long as you and your baby would like. Continue to take a prenatal vitamin daily as long as you are breastfeeding.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
Benefits for Your Baby
Breast milk has the right amount of fat, sugar, water, protein, and minerals needed for a baby's growth and development, and it changes to adapt to your baby's changing nutritional needs. Breast milk is easier to digest than formula and contains antibodies that protect infants from ear infections, diarrhea, respiratory illnesses, and allergies. The longer your baby breastfeeds, the greater the health benefits. Breastfed infants also have a lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and a reduced risk of health problems associated with premature birth.
Benefits for You
Breastfeeding triggers the release of oxytocin, which causes the uterus to contract and return to its normal size more quickly, potentially decreasing postpartum bleeding. Breastfeeding may also make it easier to lose the weight gained during pregnancy and may reduce the risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer.
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