When I was struggling to feed DS1 this helped me get through each day, realising that every day that I did it made a difference. (sorry it is quite long!)
Hope it helps someone else
First feed
Helps to stabilise baby?s blood sugars and protect baby?s gut1
For mother A great opportunity for the first skin to skin cuddle2
1 day
The antibodies in mother?s colostrum provide natural immunity from infection3
For mother Helps womb to contract towards normal size4
2-3 days
Sticky black meconium is cleared more readily from baby?s bowel5
For mother Instant relief for hot, swollen breasts when your milk comes in6
1 week
Transition to world outside womb is eased
For mother Frequent feeds mean time to sit or lie down and for you to get to know each other
2 weeks
Food and drink always ready at the right temperature, adapting to the baby?s needs
For mother Hormones help you get back to sleep after night feeds
4 weeks
For premature babies lower risk factors for heart disease in later life
For mother Saves time sterilising and making up bottles
6 weeks
Half the risk of chest infections now and up to 7 years old
For mother Breastfeeding likely to be easier and you can go out and about without bottle feeding equipment
2 months
Lower risk of food allergy at 3 years old if breastfed only
For mother Reduced risk of ovarian cancer in later life
3 months
Five times less likely to get diarrhoea now and a reduced risk for the whole year
For mother Fewer visits to GP as baby less often ill
4 months
Half the risk of ear infections;
Less risk of asthma now and protection continues up to 6 years
For mother Feeling of empowerment at having been solely responsible for growing your baby to four months
5 months
Five times lower risk of urinary tract infections
For mother A lovely way to reconnect with the baby if you go to work
6 months
Lower risk of eczema now and up to three years old, lower average blood pressure in later life
For mother Less risk of osteoporosis in the long term
1 year
Studies show greater influence on obesity for babies who are breastfed for longer
For mother No need to buy formula milk at all, saving least £450 this year
2 years
Likely to have higher average scores on intelligence tests
Expect fewer visits to orthodontist when baby is a teenager;
For mother Risk of breast cancer reduced by 8%