How has breastfeeding changed your life?

• Proud: I am giving perfect milk to my baby
• Closeness: Unimaginable connection with my baby
• Security: Breastfeeding is a safety net for my baby

Breastfeeding is not all about milk. It is about love, life and happiness, too. Here is what moms love most about breastfeeding.

The look of love. Babies are born nearsighted. They can only see things 8-15 inches away. That is about the distance between your faces during breastfeeding. Imagine how excited your baby was to see you for the first time!

You turn heads. Your breastmilk is the scent of love. Seconds after smelling it, your baby turns to the source, ready to soak your scent in as they cuddle in your arms.

A taste of love. The taste of breastmilk is exciting to your baby. Breastfed babies taste all the foods you eat, though not directly. Daily exposure to different tastes prepares your baby to be open to trying different foods when they are around 6 months old.

Change is good. Breastmilk changes with each feeding to meet the needs of your baby at that moment.

Shrinking mama. Looking to drop a few pounds? Breastfeeding burns about 500 calories each day. This can help mom get back to her pre-pregnancy weight.

Got (too much) milk? After birth, some moms produce more milk than they need. Once your body knows how much milk baby needs, you will make the perfect amount for your baby.

Fight on. Breastmilk is a healing potion that starts healing on contact. Rub breastmilk on sore nipples for quick healing.

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

Looking for ways to celebrate your breastfeeding journey? Choose one or more ideas from the list below to try this week.

• Take a video. Someday, you may forget the sights and sounds of breastfeeding. 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.
• Celebrate your breastfeeding commitment. Think of one positive word each day to describe your love and commitment to your baby. Here are a few to get you started: Strong. Powerful. Selfless. Surprising. Unconditional. Beautiful. Caring. Brave
• Reach out to others when you need a boost. Friends and family want to encourage you. Connect with them weekly to share life and laughter. Sometimes a daily connection is needed. Let them know your challenges and how they can help.
• Thank your baby for changing your life. Falling in love with your baby changed your life. How are you different? What changes make you proud? Tell your baby today how their presence in your life has changed you.
• Check with the experts. Click this link for solutions to common breastfeeding challenges:

http://WICBreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov