Deciding Whether To Breast Feed

The decision to breast-feed can raise many questions and worries for your family. Many things can affect your success: your attitudes about breast-feeding; those of your partner and family; and your lifestyle. Without question, breast milk is the best for your baby, but you, your partner, and your baby should enjoy feeding. If, for some reason, breast-feeding just isn't for you, that's OK. Breast-feeding for a week is better than not at all. Part of being successful is being informed. Here are questions many first-time breast-feeding parents have.

Why is breast-feeding a good idea?

• Breast milk is the perfect food for your baby. It is the only food your baby needs during her first six months. A baby is not ready for other foods, except formula, during the first few months of life.
• Breast milk is best for your baby's health. Breastfed babies don't get sick as often, and they usually don't have as many allergies. They may even be smarter! Also, breastfeeding seems to protect mothers from certain types of health problems.
• Mothers often find that breast milk is the easiest way to feed their babies. Also, there is no cost. Breast feeding mothers often qualify for WIC to help pay for extra food for themselves!
• You don't have to wash and sterilize bottles and nipples when you breastfeed. This leaves more time for other things.
• Breastfeeding your baby can even help you lose some of the weight you gained when you were pregnant. Breastfeeding can be a pleasant experience for baby and mom.

(Adapted from MCHB, Healthy Start Grow Smart, Your Newborn: www.ed.gov/offices/OESE/earlychildhood/healthystart; Healthy Steps)