1. Breastfeeding aids in restoring your figure more quickly to its normal, non-pregnant state. As the baby sucks on the nipples, contractions of the uterus are stimulated which help to expel any remaining bits of tissue lining the uterus. These contractions during nursing also help “firm” the uterus which helps control bleeding. This is effective only if your clinician’s examination reveals no other cause for the heavy bleeding.
2. Breastfeeding is more economical, easier, safer, faster and more convenient: no formula to buy, mix, refrigerate and reheat, and no bottles and nipples to sterilize.
3. Recent studies indicate breastfed infants are less likely to fall victim to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) than those fed cow’s milk or formula.
4. Surveys by the American Cancer Society and other researchers in the field found women who breastfeed have a lower incidence of breast cancer.
5. Breastfeeding may temporarily eliminate, delay, or reduce the menstrual flow. This helps to prevent drain on the mother’s iron reserves when she needs every bit of energy. When menstruation resumes, the mother may continue without any harmful effect.
6. A first-time mother will gain confidence sooner in her ability to take care of her baby. You get a chance to observe your baby more often and more closely. This constant contact makes you more aware of baby’s needs, reactions, and development.
7. Reduces the risk of uterine and ovarian cancer. One of the reasons for the cancer-fighting effects of breastfeeding is that estrogen levels are lower during lactation. It is thought that the less estrogen available to stimulate the lining of the uterus and perhaps breast tissue also, the less the risk of these tissues becoming cancerous.
8. Lessens osteoporosis. Non-breastfeeding women have a four times greater chance of developing osteoporosis than breastfeeding women and are more likely to suffer from hip fractures in the post-menopausal years.
9. Benefits child spacing. Since breastfeeding delays ovulation, the longer a mother breastfeeds the more she is able to practice natural childspacing, if she desires. How long a woman remains infertile depends on her baby's nursing pattern and her own individual baby.
10. Promotes emotional health. Not only is breastfeeding good for mother's body, it's good for her mind. Studies show that breastfeeding mothers show less postpartum anxiety and depression than do formula-feeding mothers.
11. Promotes postpartum weight loss. Breastfeeding mothers showed significantly larger reductions in hip circumference and more fat loss by one month postpartum when compared with formula-feeding moms. Breastfeeding mothers tend to have an earlier return to their pre-pregnant weight.
