4 Lesser Known Benefits of Breastfeeding
May 02, 2024

4 Lesser Known Benefits of Breastfeeding

Here are a few of the less commonly known benefits of breastfeeding. 


1. Natural Vaccination: It's a well-known fact that breast milk provides babies with essential nutrients. However, it's less commonly understood that breast milk also acts in some ways as a natural vaccine. The milk contains antibodies that help the baby's immune system fight off viruses and bacteria. This protection is unique and changes to meet the baby's needs.

2. Cognitive Development Boost: The act of breastfeeding is not just a feeding process, but also a developmental tool. It has been linked to high IQ scores in later childhood. The skin-to-skin contact and eye contact experienced during breastfeeding may also enhance the emotional bond between mother and baby and contribute to the child's emotional and social development.

3. Reduced Risk of Future Health Issues for Mothers: Breastfeeding can also have long-term health benefits for the mother. It reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Few people know, it can also lower the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes.

4. Natural Contraceptive (SORT OF!): When practiced under certain conditions, breastfeeding can act as a natural contraceptive. This phenomenon, known as Lactational Amenorrhea, can help with child spacing. However, it's important to note that this is not a 100% effective method and should not be entirely relied upon for birth control, please... :)