Breastfeeding Basics

From our International Board Certified Lactation Consultants

The top 12 reasons to breastfeed:

Your baby will:

1. Be getting the best nutrition available
2. Be smarter
3. Have a stronger immune system
4. Have a lower risk of leukemia and heart disease
5. Be leaner for life
6. Have fewer ear infections

You will:

1. Forge a stronger bond with your baby
2. Have a lower risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and cervical cancer
3. Lose weight faster
4. Be less likely to develop osteoporosis later in life
5. Avoid the expense and inconvenience of formula, which can cost $1000+ during the first year
6. Know you are providing the best, most natural food possible for your baby

American Academy of Pediatrics Recommendations

The AAP recommends breastfeeding exclusively for 6 months and up to at least 1 year of age.

• Breastfeeding satisfies the baby’s emotional needs.
• Breastmilk is more digestible than any substitute.
• Pre-term breastmilk is perfect for premature babies.
• Breastfeeding protects the baby against vision defects.
• Breastfeeding results in less sick days for parents.
• In 2016, the average breastfeeding initiation rates for the USA was 81.1%.

More Resources

Breastfeeding Overview

Breastfeeding and Working Moms

Breast Milk Storage Guide

Breastfeeding Support Group

Facts About Colostrum

• Colostrum is a yellow, sticky fluid, made in the body at 28 weeks gestation and is secreted during the first 3-5 days after your baby is born.
• It continues to be secreted in breastmilk for up to 2 weeks after delivery.
• One drop of colostrum contains approximately one million white blood cells which help to protect your baby from viruses and infections.
• Colostrum continues to offer the immunities that were available to baby via the placenta.
• It is high in protein, as well as fat-soluble vitamins and minerals.
• Colostrum contains high amount of sodium, potassium, chloride and cholesterol that are thought to encourage optimal development of your baby’s heart, brain, and nervous system.
• The yellow color of colostrum is due to B-carotene, one of many antioxidants that are present in colostrum.
• Colostrum’s natural laxative benefit encourages the passage of meconium, which reduces the risk of jaundice in babies.
• Colostrum is your baby’s “first immunizations!”

North Kansas City Hospital’s Breastfeeding Support Group meets 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Tuesdays.