Breastfeeding over 40 : what's in it for you?

Breastfeeding is widely recognised as the optimal method of providing nutrition to infants. But is it also good for us older mums?The short answer is - YES! Evidence suggests that breastfeeding can provide significant health advantages for women over 40. Let's take a look at some of them:

Physical Health Benefits:
Breastfeeding promotes uterine contractions, aiding in the postpartum recovery process by reducing bleeding and speeding up the return of the uterus to its pre-pregnancy size. In older mothers this process is slower so any help is good. Studies have also shown that breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer (a disease that has a higher incidence among older women) and may also lower the risk of ovarian cancer.

Psychological Health Benefits:      Breastfeeding fosters a unique emotional bond between mother and baby, promoting feelings of closeness and nurturing.
It also triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with feelings of relaxation and bonding, which can help reduce the risk of postpartum depression (which again is far more common in older mothers). 

Social and Emotional Support:
Joining breastfeeding support groups can provide older mothers with a sense of community, emotional support, and valuable information. This can be especially important for those in their 40s who may not have as active a social life as they did 15 years ago, and may not have any friends with babies. Connecting with other breastfeeding mothers over 40 can offer encouragement, shared experiences, and advice. This serves to remind us that we are still valid as mothers and not alone in going through this journey later in life.

Conclusion:
Breastfeeding offers significant health benefits for mothers over 40, both in terms of physical and psychological well-being. The advantages include improved postpartum recovery, a reduced risk of certain diseases such as breast and ovarian cancer, enhanced emotional well-being, and strengthened maternal bonding. Recognizing and understanding these benefits can empower older mothers to make informed decisions about breastfeeding, promoting their own health and the overall well-being of their infants.