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Advantages of Breastfeeding
Breastmilk is the best food for most babies. It contains all the nutrients a baby needs for healthy growth and development during the first six months of life and helps protect a baby from many illnesses. Breastfeeding also provides many health benefits for mothers. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a baby be exclusively breastfed for the first six months. Babies who are breastfed for less time also experience many health benefits. The benefits of breastfeeding for the baby include:
Breastfeeding is recommended for the vast majority of women. However, there are a few exceptions. Some mothers have medical conditions that prevent them from breastfeeding. Women with HIV/AIDS should not breastfeed because there is a risk of passing the virus to their babies. Women who have had breast surgery or are taking medications for chronic health conditions such as asthma or high blood pressure should discuss breastfeeding with their health care providers. And some babies may have conditions, like cleft palate or poor sucking reflex, that can make it difficult for them to breastfeed. In circumstances such as these, it’s a good idea to talk to your health care provider, pediatric health care provider, or a lactation consultant about breastfeeding your baby. Most recent page update: 9/9/2010
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Childbirth Connection is a national not-for-profit organization founded in 1918 as Maternity Center Association. Our mission is to improve the quality and value of maternity care through consumer engagement and health system transformation. Childbirth Connection promotes safe, effective and satisfying evidence-based maternity care and is a voice for the needs and interests of childbearing families. |
News and Features
Listening to MothersSM III: New Mothers Speak Out (June 2013) reports on new national surveys about issues women face in the postpartum period and their views about maternity care.
Access the full report and supplementary materials  Listening to MothersSM III (May 2013) is the third national survey exploring women's experiences in pregnancy and childbirth. Commissioned by Childbirth Connection, conducted by Harris Interactive, and funded by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the survey polled 2,400 women who gave birth in U.S. hospitals from 2011 to 2012. Results show that medically intensive experiences are typical, and evidence-based practices are underutilized. Childbearing women need better support and knowledge to navigate their maternity care. Access the full report and supplementary materials New Report: Maternity Care and Liability Go to report and supporting materials New Report: The Cost of Having a Baby in the United States Go to report and supporting materials New Cesarean Resources: Go to Best Evidence Report Go to web pages and booklet for women 
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