At Pippin McGee, we are big advocates of Breastfeeding. We realize that breastfeeding is not for everyone, but we like to give all of the support and help we have to educate anyone interested in it.Many people will tell you that breastfeeding is difficult and time consuming. There will always be a certain amount of people that will try dissuading you from breast feeding. Just remember that this is a personal choice. Breastfeeding is extremely natural and is a wonderful benefit for your baby. There are some simple tips on helping to make breastfeeding successful and keep you from losing your mind.

I personally breastfed both of my children and found it to be a wonderful, endearing experience. I have great confidence in the fact that I gave my baby the best that I had to give. I was much more comfortable breastfeeding my second child than I was with my first child, just because I had the experience and confidence in what I was doing.

To be successful at breastfeeding, you need to know that you are new at this, and you need to trust your body to do what it is designed to do. Many people think that they do not produce enough milk, when in actuality they do produce enough milk, but they give up too soon.

Breastfeeding Benefits

Breastfeeding is one of the most natural and beneficial activities for a mother and baby. This is actually one of the most important things that you can do for your baby that directly impacts the present and future health of your baby.

Many experts agree that formula cannot duplicate the unique properties of breast milk. Breast milk promotes an exceptional bond between mother and baby that only a mother can provide.

Benefits for your baby:

• Breast milk contains everything that your baby needs: proteins, fats, lactose, minerals, vitamins, iron, water and enzymes in the exact amounts required for the optimal growth and development.
• Breastfed babies have less ear infections, less respiratory infections, a decreased risk of developing childhood cancers, allergies, childhood diabetes, heart diseases, eczema, asthma and obesity.
• Breastfed babies are just generally healthier. Breast milk contains substances, which prevent harmful bacteria from growing in intestines, causing gastrointestinal and diarrheal infections.
• Breast milk is clean, free from bacteria and has anti-infective properties
• Breastfed babies have a decreased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
• My personal favorite, breast milk is always with you, always available and does not need any preparation. It is readily available whenever your baby needs it.
• Breastfeeding enhances brain development. Research has shown there is better visual acuity in breastfed children ,and many think that breastfeeding helps raise your baby’s IQ.
• Another personal favorite: breastfeeding is a special time for both you and your baby and enhances the emotional bond between the child and the mother. It provides warmth, love and affection, which is an experience you will treasure for a lifetime.

Benefits for the Mother:

• Breast-feeding reduces post-delivery bleeding and chances of anemia
• Nursing tends to help reduce your weight
• Breast milk is readily available and saves time, energy and money
• Breastfed babies tend to be healthier, which takes time, stain and worry off of you
• Breastfeeding has a protective effect against several types of breast cancers, ovarian cancer and osteoporosis.
• Breastfeeding is a wonderful, bonding experience and many mothers often experience increased self-confidence and better adjustment with their babies.