Breastfeeding has numerous benefits for mothers and babies. Breast milk is a natural and nutritious source of food that supports babies’ development. 1 Nephi 17:2 says, “And so great were the blessings of the Lord upon us, that . . . our women did give plenty of suck for their children, and were strong.”
What are the benefits of breastfeeding?
Breast milk is a natural food source that contains nutrients essential for brain development and growth, as well as antibodies that protect infants from various illnesses and infections. Breastfeeding gives babies all the nutrients they need in their early years of life to reach their full potential in the future. For more information about breastfeeding, click on the questions below.
Common Breastfeeding Questions
When should I start breastfeeding?
How long should I breastfeed?
Should I give water to a baby younger than six months old?
How do I store pumped breastmilk?
How can fathers help with breastfeeding?
When should I start giving other foods to my baby besides breastmilk?
What are the signs of successful breastfeeding?
What can I do if I’m not able to breastfeed?
To learn more about breastfeeding, download the breastfeeding family resource.
How to Help Others Understand Breastfeeding
There are some simple things we can do to help parents. We can help them realize the importance of their baby’s growth and development. We can help mothers consider breastfeeding (if possible). However, for some women, breastfeeding is not possible. We should take care not to do anything that would make these women feel guilty or inadequate.
For more ideas on how to help others, download the unit leader guide on breastfeeding.
Consider the ideas below as you pray for guidance.
Ministering Brothers and Sisters
When appropriate, ministering sisters may offer practical information and resources about breastfeeding as they visit families of expectant parents. Ministering sisters may also encourage the sisters they serve to learn about the health benefits of breastfeeding children until they are between the ages of one and two years old.
Ministering brothers may encourage husbands to provide loving support and encouragement for breastfeeding and to take on other duties that help the family.
Local Leaders
Leaders can encourage the natural practice of breastfeeding, answer questions, introduce resources, and support parents with time and space to feed their babies in Church settings. Other ways to support include:
- Sensitively and respectfully work with sisters who may have questions or need encouragement. Working towards creating a connection and showing love could help leaders understand what might make it difficult for a woman to breastfeed.
- Organize breastfeeding classes for pregnant and new mothers.
- Help mothers who experience challenges with breastfeeding feel loved and supported, avoiding comparison and judgement. No one should make any woman feed guilty or inadequate regarding her breastfeeding experience.
- Learn about local resources that help mothers breastfeed successfully.