Why is lactation important

Breast milk changes constantly to meet babies' needs. Breast milk is always ready and good for the environment. It is available wherever and whenever your baby needs it. It is always at the right temperature, clean and free. No bottles to clean. Breastfeeding has no waste, so it is good for the environment. Why is Breastfeeding Important for You? Mothers who breastfeed: Have a reduced risk of Type 2 Diabetes and certain cancers such as breast cancer May find it easier to return to what they weighed before they got pregnant Strengthen the bond with their children Making it Work — You Can Do It!

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View Metrics. Email alerts Article activity alert. Advance article alerts. This may be due to the development of different gut bacteria. Breastfed babies have higher amounts of beneficial gut bacteria, which may affect fat storage. Babies fed breast milk also have more leptin in their systems than formula-fed babies.

Leptin is a key hormone for regulating appetite and fat storage. Breastfed babies also self-regulate their milk intake. Breastfeeding may help baby ace those tests. Some studies suggest there may be a difference in brain development between breastfed and formula-fed babies. This difference may be due to the physical intimacy, touch, and eye contact associated with breastfeeding as well as nutrient content.

Studies indicate that breastfed babies have higher intelligence scores and are less likely to develop behavioral problems have learning difficulties as they grow older. However, the most pronounced effects are seen in preterm babies, who have a higher risk for developmental issues.

You may have heard this one often. While some women seem to gain weight during breastfeeding, others seem to effortlessly lose weight. During pregnancy, your uterus grows immensely, expanding from the size of a pear to filling almost the entire space of your abdomen. After delivery, your uterus goes through a process called involution, which helps it return to its previous size.

Oxytocin , a hormone that increases throughout pregnancy, helps drive this process. Your body secretes high amounts of oxytocin during labor to help deliver the baby and reduce bleeding. It can also help you bond with your new little one. Oxytocin also increases during breastfeeding. It encourages uterine contractions and reduces bleeding, helping the uterus return to its previous size. Studies have also shown that mothers who breastfeed generally have less blood loss after delivery and faster involution of the uterus.

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