Breastfeeding is the best form of infant nutrition. Human milk provides perfectly digestible food that contains essential nutrients for growth and development for all parts of the body. Research has shown that breastfeeding is the superior form of nutrition for brain growth and protection against infections, allergies and many illnesses. Breastfeeding may also protect women from some cancers and helps your body heal after childbirth. It is easy, less costly than formula feeding and is a natural source of warmth and comfort for your baby.
Lactation is the production of human milk by the glands of the breast.
During pregnancy the breasts increase in size in preparation for the delivery of milk after childbirth. At birth, hormones prompt the production of colostrum, the first milk, which changes into breast milk in a few days. With continued stimulation to the breast, the amount of milk increases, providing the correct amount of milk to be fed to your growing infant. During pregnancy, your breast size increases. Some women only notice about a cup size increase in their breasts, while others have a greater increase.