Breastfeeding

According to the U.S. Surgeon General, breastfeeding is one of the most important contributors to infant health. Breastfeeding provides a range of benefits for the infant’s growth, immunity and development.  In addition, breastfeeding improves maternal health and contributes economic benefits to families, health care systems and workplaces.

• Breast milk is the most complete form of nutrition for infants, and it evolves as the infant matures.
• Breastfeeding saves on health care costs. Total medical care costs for the nation are lower for fully breastfed infants than never-breastfed infants since breastfed infants typically need fewer sick care visits, prescriptions, and hospitalizations.
• Breastfeeding contributes to a more productive workforce. Breastfeeding mothers miss less work, as their infants are sick less often. Employer medical costs also are lower and productivity is higher.

Reports

• Getting It Right After Delivery: Five Hospital Practices That Support Breastfeeding

Websites

• The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine
• American Academy of Pediatrics
• Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (US)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Breastfeeding
• Colorado's Breastfeeding Task Force
• Colorado Breastfeeding Promotion Work Group
• International Lactation Consultant Association
• La Leche League International
• Lactation Consultants in Colorado
• The Lactation Program and Mother's Milk Bank (Colorado)
• United States Breastfeeding Committee
• USDA Food Pyramid for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
• Wellstart International