The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently updated their 1997 policy on breastfeeding. The new policy reflects new research and findings in the last several years regarding breastfeeding and the benefits of breastfeeding your baby.

Studies show that infants who are breastfed have a smaller number of instances of diarrhea, ear infections and bacterial meningitis. It is also possible that breastfeeding helps offer your baby protection against SIDS, diabetes, obesity and asthma later in life. Likewise, breastfeeding also has benefits for mom including reducing the possibility of ovarian and breast cancer, and possibly a decreased risk of hip fractures and osteoporosis in the postmenopausal period.

The policy recommendations include:

• Exclusive breastfeeding for approximately the first six months and support for breastfeeding for the first year and beyond as long as mutually desired by mother and child.

• Mother and infant should sleep in proximity to each other to facilitate breastfeeding;

• Self-examination of mother's breasts for lumps is recommended throughout lactation, not just after weaning;

• Support efforts of parents and the courts to ensure continuation of breastfeeding in cases of separation, custody and visitation;

• Pediatricians should counsel adoptive mothers on the benefits of induced lactation through hormonal therapy or mechanical stimulation.

• Recognize and work with cultural diversity in breastfeeding practices

• A pediatrician or other knowledgeable and experienced health care professional should evaluate a newborn breastfed infant at 3 to 5 days of age and again at 2 to 3 weeks of age to be sure the infant is feeding and growing well.

It is important to establish a good breastfeeding relationship with your baby from day one and to continue to breastfeed for as long as possible. The large majority of experts today agree that breastfeeding your baby is best for the first year and that the longer you breastfeed your baby the more your baby will benefit for it. If you are having trouble breastfeeding your baby you can contact a member of the La Leche League for support, or ask someone in the hospital after you deliver.

Important notice: The BabiesOnline.com site is for educational purposes only, and presents information of a general nature. This is not medical advice. If you are concerned about your health or the health of a family member or have questions about whether or not you are pregnant, please consult with a healthcare professional. This information is not a substitute for personal medical attention, diagnosis or treatment. BabiesOnline accepts no responsibility for damages resulting from the use of this information and make no warranty or representation, expressed or implied, including but not limited to, any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. This information is provided as is, and you, its user, assume all risks when using it.

Related Articles

• Breastfeeding Best Bet For Baby
• Breastmilk or Formula?
• Moving From Bottle to Sippy Cup
• Breastfeeding Articles

Full Article List

Register with Babies Online Track your baby's development and create a FREE daily online pregnancy journal, complete with pictures of your precious little one, to share with friends & family around the world and print for your baby book! Your Email: Confirm Email: Baby's Due Date: 123456789101112   12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031   20082009  I have read and agree to Babies Online's Terms of Use  Subscribe to the Babies Online Newsletter too!

More Resources

The information contained on this site is for educational purposes only and is not meant for diagnosis or treatment. Any information found on this site should be discussed with a health care professional. Use of this information should be done in accordance with the health care plan outlined by your health care professional. For specific professional or medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment, consult your doctor or health care professional.