Answering Breastfeeding Questions
- Staff Writer
- Aug 18
- 2 min read
Do I need to breastfeed? What if I can’t breastfeed? Why should I breastfeed? What does breastfeeding give babies?
Breastfeeding doesn’t have to be intimidating or secretive. In fact, doctors agree that breastfeeding is the healthiest way to feed your baby, with over 78% of American mothers breastfeeding or using breastmilk.
However, breastfeeding comes with a lot of questions from new parents. Here are a few common questions that can help you as you prepare for your baby.
What are the benefits of breastfeeding?
● Breastfeeding benefits your baby by:
○ Covering 100% of their nutritional needs for the first six months of life
○ Boosting their immune system by passing the mother’s antibodies
○ Lowering the risk of major illnesses and conditions, including asthma, SIDS, and diabetes
● Breastfeeding benefits the mother by:
○ Lowering the risk of developing breast cancer and Type 2 Diabetes
○ Lowering the risk of postpartum depression
○ Producing hormones that help the mother recover from the birth
○ Help the mother lose weight gained during pregnancy more quickly
Are there risks to breastfeeding?
As long as everything is cleared with your doctor and you are producing milk, there are not many risks associated with breastfeeding. However, many mothers can experience some difficult or uncomfortable conditions, including:
● Breast swelling or inflammation
● Milk duct clogs
● Cracked or painful nipples
● Potential bleeding once baby starts teething
Risks to your baby are also relatively low, provided your milk supply stays at a relatively consistent rate and you avoid potential milk contaminants like nicotine, marijuana, alcohol, and high levels of caffeine or mercury.
What if I can’t breastfeed?
There are many reasons a mother might not be able to breastfeed, but the most important thing to remember is that the best baby is a fed baby. There’s nothing wrong with formula, but there are also many resources available to new mothers regarding breastfeeding, latching, formula, and combination feeding.
While there is research to support breastfeeding benefits, formula-fed babies are just as capable of living healthy, loved lives.
Ask Questions and Get Support
The largest issue regarding breastfeeding is that many people don’t talk about it. There’s no reason to wait to ask questions, find support, and figure out the best feeding plan for you and your family.
Visit our lactation specialist at the SAC Health Pediatrics Department at our SBC Campus (on G Street), Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 2:00 pm. No appointment required.
SAC Health SBC Campus Location
250 S. G. St, San Bernardino, CA 92410
