Breastfeeding provides the best possible nutrition for your infant and allows you special uninterrupted time to bond with one another. Breastfeeding has numerous long-term benefits for your infant, too. Breastfed babies have fewer ear infections. Breastfeeding lowers the risk of asthma and food allergies. Breastfeeding provides protection against diarrhea, gastrointestinal infections, and respiratory infections.
Breastfed babies are at lower risk of developing some childhood cancers.
If you do opt for medication or have a cesarean delivery, breastfeeding may take a little extra work at first. Theresa Lucker nurses her son shortly after birth. Nursing soon after birth will help your uterus contract by stimulating the release of oxytocin. This first time at the breast is a time to introduce your baby to breastfeeding. Don t expect too much or try to practice everything you ve read or learned.