Breastfeeding

What is Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding, or nursing, is the process of feeding an infant with milk produced in a woman's mammary glands. The method has been linked with numerous benefits for both the nursing infant and mother.

When a baby is placed at the breast of a woman who is lactating (producing milk), and begins to suck at the breast's nipple and areola (the darker area of skin around the nipple), the action forces milk through tiny openings in the nipple. The amount of milk produced in the breast is directly related to the frequency of nursing. The breast is designed to keep up with the baby's demand.

Breast milk is a complete food for every baby. It contains exactly the right blend of nutrients and its composition constantly changes to suit the baby's changing needs.