They are less likely to contract:

Gastro-intestinal infections (vomiting and diarrhoea)

Chest infections

Urine infections

Ear infections

Wheezy breathing/asthma

Eczema-where in     family

Diabetes in childhood

Obesity

Breast feeding is even more important in premature babies. They are open to potentially very dangerous problems such as bowel disorder.

If your baby is too young or under developed to suckle, they can be fed via a tube, syringe or cup.

It is important to give breast milk to premature babies, even if you don’t intend to breastfeed later on.

You should try to express early on, ideally within 6 hours of delivery. You should express at least 6 -8 times in 24 hours and at least once at night time. This is because there is a greater release of prolactin (milk producing hormone) during the night. Feeding and expressing at night helps to maintain these levels.

You will produce small amounts at first, every drop is important. The amount will increase between 2-5 days.

Pre menopausal breast cancer-20% lower risk

This is because breast feeding uses up natural fat stores laid down in pregnancy and this helps to avoid long term health risks associated with being over weight, for example diabetes and heart diseases.

The longer you breastfeed, the greater the benefits are. Current recommendations are to breastfeed for at least the first 6 months, better if for a year and you will both gain maximum benefits if you feed for 2 years or longer.

Breast milk is always available at the right temperature, and the right amount for your baby.

There is no cleaning or sterilizing

It’s free, easy and there is less work

It’s free, easy and there is less work

It gives you an amazing bond with your baby

Even if you only feed for a short while, you are giving your baby the best start the best start in life. You are passing antibodies to protect and a closeness no-one else can give. For the first few days your body will be producing colostrum. It is made during pregnancy & after birth until your milk comes in at around 3-5 days post - natally.

Colostrum is describes as low volume, high yield, which means little is made but it is perfect for your newborns digestive system, there is plenty in these quantities.

It is rich in protein, immunoglobulins, vitamins anti-infective agents, living cells, and minerals. It is immediately and easily digested.