Breastfeeding Benefits
Breastfeeding offers many benefits to both mother and baby.
Health Benefits for Mom and Baby
Women who breastfeed have a reduced risk of developing breast cancer, ovarian cancer and diabetes. Infants who are breastfed have a a lower risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), obesity, respiratory infections, ear infections, eczema, diarrhea, diabetes and leukemia. Breastfeeding really does make a difference!
Bonding with Baby
Physical contact with baby is very important, helping baby to feel safe, secure and loved. Holding baby skin to skin also boosts mom's levels of oxytocin, a hormone that helps breast milk flow and helps you feel calm. Learn more about skin-to-skin and other helpful tips to plan for baby's delivery.
Breast Milk Offers Complete Nutrition
Breast milk provides baby with complete nutrition and additional health and nutrition benefits which infant formula does not, such as live antibodies. Breast milk is also easily absorbed by baby and the human body also tailor makes breast milk to meet baby's individual nutritional needs! Click the link below to learn more about breast milk and how it changes for baby, no matter their age!
Breast Milk is Free and Convenient
Breast milk is free, convenient, and always ready when baby is hungry! There are no bottles of formula to warm or any mixing required when you choose to breastfeed your baby.
Breastfeeding Resources
WIC Breastfeeding Support
An interactive breastfeeding resource for information tailored to whichever stage you are in. English only.
Droplet
Learn the ABCs of breastfeeding before you deliver. Great resource in English and Spanish.
Kelly Mom
Evidence based information on pregnancy, breastfeeding, and parenting. Available in English, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Russian and Bulgarian.
Nevada Breastfeeds
Website detailing statewide initiatives to promote and support breastfeeding. Available in English only.
Office on Women’s Health
Great information on breastfeeding for women and for their employers. Available in English and Spanish.
Stanford Medicine- Newborn Nursery
Great resources, including videos on initiating breastfeeding, hand expression, and milk supply. Primarily English; some resources available in Spanish.