Of course breastfeeding has so many benefits for babies: better build up of antibodies, and bonding time with mom. But there is also a reason it's better for mom too, quicker weight loss! I gained 45 lbs with my first pregnancy, and it was gone by 6 months post-partum without one bit of exercise. This pregnancy I gained 40 lbs, I am only 8 weeks past the birth, and have lost 22 lbs. If you don't believe me, check out this excerpt from Counseling the Nursing Mother By Judith Lauwers, Anna Swisher:
So if the bonding with baby was not enough, do it for vanity :)
I know when my baby was 9 months old I stopped breastfeeding, and I missed our time together so much that I tried to start again, but unfortunately my milk had already dried up. This time around I am aiming for a year, especially because we have not vaccinated our son.
Obviously it's a personal decision, but I found it so much easier to feed during the night without having to heat bottles and there is far less dish-washing and sterilizing needed and trust me, with a new baby, a break from ANY chore is much welcomed. Here are some of my favorite breastfeeding items:
