The decision to breastfeed is a very important one that can mean better health for you and your baby both now and in the future. Given the choice, it is very likely that all babies would choose to be breastfed. In this section, we hope to provide you with useful information to help you make an informed infant feeding decision.
Breastfeeding has many advantages for babies, their mothers, for society and for the environment.
Benefits for babies
The health benefits of breastfeeding for babies include less risk of:
Breastfed babies also have:
Benefits for mothers
The health benefits of breastfeeding for mothers include:
Breastfeeding has other benefits too:
For more information on breastfeeding, click here.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Does breastfeeding Hurt?
No. If it does, there’s something wrong with the way the baby is latched on. Take him/her off and begin again.
How do I know my baby’s getting enough milk?
Once the milk comes in, the theory of “what-goes-in-one-end-comes-out-the-other” works: 4-6 wet disposable nappies (6-8 cloth nappies) and 3-4 bowel movements in 24 hours usually indicates the baby is getting an adequate volume of your milk.
Can I breastfeed without exposing myself?
Absolutely! It’s quite easy to nurse a small baby discreetly if you wear separates. Wearing a loose fitting top or shirt that can be lifted up from the waist works well. You can turn away slightly for someone sitting opposite.
What’s in it for me?
A smarter, happier baby who is less likely to develop allergies and likely to avoid many infections. For mum, there is a reduced risk of breast, ovarian and cervical cancers.
Can I breastfeed if I’m not large breasted?
Yes! Size has nothing to do with milk production. Changes in the breast during early pregnancy makes it possible for the breasts to make milk regardless of size.
Won’t I have to give up eating the foods I enjoy?
Not at all. For most mothers, a well balanced diet is all that is needed.
Doesn’t breastfeeding tie you down?
Not really. During the first few months, a breastfed baby is very portable! Just pack a few extra nappies and maybe a change of clothes for the baby and you’re ready to leave! Slings and wraps are very useful and comfortable for both mother and baby.
How long does it take to breastfeed?
Soon after the baby is born, feedings usually take 15-20 minutes per side and most mothers offer both sides at each feeding. If the baby falls asleep, start the next feeding with the breast that didn’t get nursed at the last feeding. Later, as the baby becomes more efficient, an entire feeding may only take 10-15 minutes!
What’s so special about human milk?
Your body makes milk especially for your baby. Every time your baby nurses, he gets protection from exactly what you and he have come in contact with. Plus it’s exactly what he needs for brain development and perfect growth.
Useful sources for support:
La Leche League
Donegal support groups
Breastfeeding.ie
Breastfeeding has many advantages for babies, their mothers, for society and for the environment.
Benefits for babies
The health benefits of breastfeeding for babies include less risk of:
- Stomach upsets
- Coughs and colds
- Ear infections
- Diabetes
- Asthma and eczema
- Obesity (being very overweight)
- High blood pressure later in life
Breastfed babies also have:
- Better mental development
- Better mouth formation and straighter teeth
Benefits for mothers
The health benefits of breastfeeding for mothers include:
- Less risk of breast cancer
- Less risk of ovarian cancer
- Less risk of bone thinning (osteoporosis) in later life
- Stronger bones in later life
- Faster return to pre-pregnancy figure
Breastfeeding has other benefits too:
- It is cheaper because less equipment is needed, and
- It saves you time because you do not have to prepare bottles
For more information on breastfeeding, click here.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Does breastfeeding Hurt?
No. If it does, there’s something wrong with the way the baby is latched on. Take him/her off and begin again.
How do I know my baby’s getting enough milk?
Once the milk comes in, the theory of “what-goes-in-one-end-comes-out-the-other” works: 4-6 wet disposable nappies (6-8 cloth nappies) and 3-4 bowel movements in 24 hours usually indicates the baby is getting an adequate volume of your milk.
Can I breastfeed without exposing myself?
Absolutely! It’s quite easy to nurse a small baby discreetly if you wear separates. Wearing a loose fitting top or shirt that can be lifted up from the waist works well. You can turn away slightly for someone sitting opposite.
What’s in it for me?
A smarter, happier baby who is less likely to develop allergies and likely to avoid many infections. For mum, there is a reduced risk of breast, ovarian and cervical cancers.
Can I breastfeed if I’m not large breasted?
Yes! Size has nothing to do with milk production. Changes in the breast during early pregnancy makes it possible for the breasts to make milk regardless of size.
Won’t I have to give up eating the foods I enjoy?
Not at all. For most mothers, a well balanced diet is all that is needed.
Doesn’t breastfeeding tie you down?
Not really. During the first few months, a breastfed baby is very portable! Just pack a few extra nappies and maybe a change of clothes for the baby and you’re ready to leave! Slings and wraps are very useful and comfortable for both mother and baby.
How long does it take to breastfeed?
Soon after the baby is born, feedings usually take 15-20 minutes per side and most mothers offer both sides at each feeding. If the baby falls asleep, start the next feeding with the breast that didn’t get nursed at the last feeding. Later, as the baby becomes more efficient, an entire feeding may only take 10-15 minutes!
What’s so special about human milk?
Your body makes milk especially for your baby. Every time your baby nurses, he gets protection from exactly what you and he have come in contact with. Plus it’s exactly what he needs for brain development and perfect growth.
Useful sources for support:
La Leche League
Donegal support groups
Breastfeeding.ie
