The benefits of breastfeeding

We often hear about the virtues of breast milk for babies, about boosting their immune system and the protection they gain from it. But what about the benefits of breastfeeding for the mother?

That is exactly the topic we're exploring here, on your favourite blog Maman et Bébé Nature!

The benefits of breastfeeding for the mother: an important decision!

To breastfeed, or not to breastfeed?! Every woman has her reasons and should not be judged for her choice, of course. Illness, personal choice, work... numerous reasons can lead a mother to bottle-feed.

However, it is still worth noting that breastfeeding has an enormous number of advantages when it is possible. So, for those who have not yet quite made up their minds, here is why breastfeeding your child is wonderful!

The physiological benefits of breastfeeding for the mother

For once, let's talk about the impact of breastfeeding for women, rather than for babies. Indeed, breastfeeding is encouraged and recommended by medical professionals for at least the first 6 months.

• Breastfeeding helps with weight loss: yes, ladies, you read that right! The energy expenditure is such that you regain your figure more easily.

• Aids recovery: the human body is perfectly designed. Breastfeeding triggers the production of a very specific hormone that reduces the risk of infection, promotes relaxation and helps the uterus return to its original position.

• A natural form of contraception: also known as LAM (Lactational Amenorrhoea Method), this technique is 95% effective during the two months following birth.

• Reduces cancer risk: finally, among the benefits of breastfeeding for the mother, it also reduces the rate of cervical cancer.

The emotional benefits of breastfeeding for the mother

Breastfeeding goes beyond physical advantages, also offering emotional benefits for the mother.

• Feeding your baby creates a special bond, strengthening the emotional connection. The hormones released, such as oxytocin — the love hormone — contribute to this unique connection.
• Each breastfeeding session offers a precious pause: a chance to connect with your baby and practise mindfulness. It is an opportunity to create lasting memories, strengthening the mother's emotional wellbeing.

Thus, breastfeeding not only brings physical advantages but also contributes to mental and emotional wellbeing, making it an enriching choice in many respects.

Breastfeeding as a support for sleep and recovery
Breastfeeding can also help mothers sleep better. Indeed, oxytocin, released during breastfeeding, not only fosters emotional connection but also promotes more restorative sleep for the mother. This hormone helps to reduce stress and anxiety, thereby facilitating post-birth recovery. Furthermore, nursing can help establish a regular sleep pattern for baby, which indirectly benefits the mother's nights. By offering mothers valuable support in regaining quality sleep, breastfeeding proves beneficial for both mental and physical health in the long term.

Strengthening the mother's immune system through breastfeeding
In addition to the benefits for baby, breastfeeding also offers immune advantages for the mother. By producing milk, the mother's body stimulates the immune response, which can contribute to better resistance to infections. Some studies also show that breastfeeding helps regulate the inflammatory response — a particularly useful benefit during the postnatal period. By boosting her natural defences, breastfeeding supports the mother's overall health whilst offering her enhanced immune protection during this time of great change.

To find out more...

If you would like to learn even more about this subject, we have an article on "Breastfeeding and the father" that might well interest you...