Everyone knows breastfeeding is the best nutrition for baby. But did you know these facts?

You turn heads. Newborn babies know the unique scent of your breastmilk. That is why babies turn their head to you when hungry. To your baby, the smell of your breastmilk is probably better than the most expensive perfume.

The look of love. Babies are born nearsighted. They can only see things about eight to 15 inches away. That is about the distance between your face and your baby’s face during breastfeeding. Imagine how excited they are to see their mom for the first time.

Fight on. Breastmilk has a special component that fights infection. If your nipples are sore, gently massage breastmilk into your nipples to ease soreness and speed up healing.

Good taste. Breastmilk allows your baby to get a taste of whatever you are eating, though not directly. Introducing new foods to your baby around 6 months may be easier because of their early exposure to many tastes. Formula only has one taste.

Time for a change. Your breastmilk may be a watery, bluish color when you start your feeding time. But as you nurse, your breastmilk gets thicker and higher in fat. This gives your baby the calories needed to grow.

Shrinking mama. Your body releases hormones when you breastfeed. This helps your uterus shrink back to its pre-pregnancy size.

Your future looks bright. Breastfeeding may lower the risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer in moms. Your baby benefits now; you benefit later.

Do not let the facts get in the way. Breastfeeding facts are good to consider, but it is the facts of love that matter most. Breastfeeding is about the feel of your baby’s hair and skin. It is about the gurgling sounds that make you laugh. It is about being addicted to the sweet smell of your baby. It is about the look of love that melts your heart. And those are facts you will treasure forever.

Here are ways to celebrate your love.

• Take a video. Someday, you may forget the sights and sounds of breastfeeding. You may forget your baby’s sweet smile or how their eyes fill with love for you. You may forget the gurgling sounds or the way they peacefully drift off to sleep. You may forget the way they cuddle in your arms. Take a video now, so you can remember later.
• Celebrate your body’s perfection. We all find fault with our bodies, especially after pregnancy. Today, celebrate how perfect your body is for breastfeeding. Your breasts are perfectly attuned to your baby’s needs, allowing them to thrive and grow. Next time you breastfeed, remember to celebrate your body’s perfection.
• Be a mentor. You know a lot about breastfeeding. Share your breastfeeding expertise with moms-to-be and new moms who might be struggling. Offer to be a breastfeeding buddy. When you see a breastfeeding mom, acknowledge her and the gift she is giving to her baby.
• Write a letter to your future self. Remind yourself of the breastfeeding challenges you overcame. Inspire yourself with details about your positive breastfeeding experiences. Reflect on the thoughts of bonding and love you shared with your baby during breastfeeding. Celebrate yourself.

For more information about breastfeeding and your breastfeeding journey, visit WICBreastfeeding.FNS.USDA.gov or call our Breastfeeding Warm Line at (888) 439-8970 for support and encouragement.