Benefits of Breastfeeding FOR THE BABY • Provides all essential nutrients in the right proportion, making it the perfect natural food • Contains antibodies that strengthen immunity and protect against infections like ear infections, diarrhoea, and pneumonia • Reduces the risk of chronic diseases later in life, including asthma, obesity, and diabetes •Promotes healthy growth and brain development • Easier to digest compared to formula • Encourages bonding through skin-to-skin contact and comfort FOR THE MOTHER • Helps the uterus contract and return to its normal size faster after delivery • Reduces postpartum bleeding • Burns extra calories, aiding in weight loss and helping mothers return to pre pregnancy weight more quickly • Lowers the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure • Delays the return of menstruation, . which can assist in birth spacing • Reduces the risk of postpartum depression while strengthening emotional bonding with the baby FOR FAMILY AND SOCIETY • Cost-effective, eliminating the need for formula, bottles, and sterilisers • Lowers healthcare costs by reducing illness rates in infants and mothers • Environmentally friendly , no packaging, waste, or production-related pollution Challenges in Breastfeeding • Breastfeeding can feel exhausting and restrictive, as it is frequent •Some mothers may experience sore nipples, breast engorgement, or mastitis. Medical advice is recommended in such cases, especially if certain medications or illnesses are involved • Breastfeeding in public may be difficult without privacy, though breastfeeding rooms are increasingly available in malls and public spaces • A mother's diet and lifestyle can affect milk quality, so a balanced diet is essential Storing Breast Milk Breast milk can be expressed by hand or with a manual or electric pump. Guidelines: At room temperature, Up to four hours In the refrigerator, Up to four days In the freezer: Up to six months When freezing, store small portions to avoid waste, leaving about one inch of space at the top of containers as milk expands when frozen Thaw by placing the container in the refrigerator overnight, in warm water, or under lukewarm running water. #gynaecologist #nashik