When the topic of breastfeeding comes up, most people automatically think of the benefits to the nursing baby. However, there are many benefits that the mother receives as well.

When the baby latches on after birth, the stimulation releases the hormone Oxytocin, which causes the mother’s uterus to contract. These contractions cause the uterus to shrink back to normal, pre-pregnancy size, much quicker than a non-breastfeeding woman, protecting against excess blood loss after birth.

Prolactin is also known as the “bonding hormone” or “mothering hormone.” It works together with Oxytocin to create an intense feeling of needing to be with the new baby.

Breastfeeding mothers also experience some major medical benefits. Breastfeeding decreases a woman’s chance of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, urinary tract infections and osteoporosis!

The most commonly reported benefit for mothers is that they lose the baby weight quicker than a formula feeding mother…..often without even dieting! This is because breastfeeding alone consumes 300-500 calories a day!! However, don’t decrease your food intake to accelerate the weight loss. Proper nutrition is needed to keep an adequate milk supply for your baby. Good nutrition means eating a well-balanced and varied diet of foods in as close to their natural state as possible. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and a good source of lean protein are essential.

Lastly, formula use is so expensive, and time consuming! Breastfeeding mothers easily save $3000 or more from not using formula. Not to mention that breast milk is always the right temperature, and bottles don’t need to be washed or prepared when the baby is impatient to eat.

Breastfeeding is never a sacrifice. It is a relationship; give and take. The baby receives so much, and in return, so does the mother.

*Please refer to THE WOMANLY ART OF BREASTFEEDING for more information, or contact your local Leader for additional literature.