Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is the best way to feed your baby.  Beginning to breastfeed can be an intimidating experience for a new mother.  Breastfeeding takes practice but when it is established it can be a positive experience for both the mom and baby.  There are many benefits to choosing to breastfeed, for example:

• Breast milk has the right nutrients to meet the baby’s needs for the first 6 months of a baby’s life.  Breastfeeding can continue up to 2 years and beyond if healthy solid foods are added at 6 months;
• Breastfeeding can help to reduce the risk of the baby developing allergies;
• Breast milk is easy for the baby to digest;
• Breast milk is always the right temperature, always available, safe, fresh and economical;
• Breastfeeding establishes a close bond between the mother and child;
• Breastfeeding may prevent the development of breast cancer and ovarian cancer in mother.

Links

Saskatoon Health Region fact sheets on various breastfeeding issues
Health Canada Recommendations
Information from Saskatchewan Health
La Leche League Canada