Breastfeeding

Breast is best for you and your baby, helping to give them the very best start in life. Try to fully breastfeed your baby for around six months.

Why is breastfeeding best for your baby?

• Breast milk is fresh, free and tasty for babies
• It is the best way to help your baby grow and develop physically and emotionally
• It is the best source of food for a growing baby (better than formula milk)
• It helps your baby build immunity, meaning they will be less likely to get sick
• It helps reduce the risk of obesity and possibly diabetes later in the baby’s life
• It helps your baby bond with you

Why is breastfeeding best for Mum?

• It reduces the risk of breast cancer
• It may also reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, osteoporosis and hip fractures
• It can help Mum get back in shape after being pregnant
• Breastfeeding can be part of a healthy lifestyle for Mum
• It helps Mum bond with her new baby, especially through skin-to-skin contact

	Developed by Creating a Better Future, our Breastfeeding Support Directory lists the range of services offered in the Counties Manukau district to support breastfeeding mothers as well as their whaanau and supporters. Click here to download a copy.
	Turuki Healthcare offers breastfeeding support and education through its B4Baby and B4Baby Plus services. Home visits and clinic appointments with breastfeeding advocates and lactation consultants are available for mothers in Counties Manukau from pregnancy right through until the baby is at least six months old. For more information, call 0800 B4BABY or (09) 275 5788.
	For more information on breastfeeding and where to go for support, visit www.breastfeeding.org.nz
	Contact us for a free copy of ‘A Healthy Start For Your Baby’ – a book of colour posters with tips for caring for children from birth to five years. (Available in English and Samoan)