Breastfeeding Benefits for Moms and Babies

Breastfeeding is more than just a way to nourish your baby. It can support healing and health for moms, too!

Before diving into some of the health benefits, it’s important to note that every feeding journey is unique. Fed is best: Whether you breastfeed, formula feed, or do a little of both, what matters most is that you are both happy and healthy.

Benefits for moms and babies

Breastfeeding can be a meaningful way to feed and bond with your baby.

Benefits for moms can include:

• Faster Recovery Postpartum: Breastfeeding helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size and reduces postpartum bleeding.
• Emotional Connection: Breastfeeding encourages skin-to-skin contact. This promotes bonding and emotional well-being for moms and babies.
• Lower Risk of Chronic Conditions: Moms who breastfeed have a lower risk of breast and ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Benefits for babies can include:

• Nutrition: Breast milk is called “liquid gold” for a reason – it’s perfectly tailored to meet a baby’s needs. It contains the right balance of energy and nutrients that evolve as the baby grows.
• Immune Support: Breast milk is rich in antibodies that help protect babies from illnesses like stomach bugs and ear infections.
• Lower Risk of Chronic Conditions: Breastfed babies have a lower risk of asthma, type 1 diabetes, obesity, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

How long should you breastfeed?

The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding along with food for two years or longer.

AZ Blue supports you

Support from your healthcare providers, health plan, family, and community can make a big difference in your breastfeeding journey.

If you’re an AZ Blue member, log in to your member portal to find in-network specialists such as lactation consultants. Click ‘Find a Doctor’ and search ‘Doctors by Specialty.’ Be sure to check your plan benefits to see what lactation resources, like breast pumps, are available to you.

Did you know? Breast pumps and supplies (including bags or bottles for storage) are covered at no cost under most plans when ordered through an in-network medical supplies provider like Better Living Now or Yummy Mummy.

Need your breastfeeding questions answered right now?

Reach out to the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) Breastfeeding Hotline at 1-800-833-4642. Board-certified lactation consultants are available 24/7 and can help in English and Spanish.

Finding what works for you and your baby

Breastfeeding is not always easy or possible, and it can take a toll on mental health. AZ Blue’s community partner, Postpartum Support International, says that supply issues, latch challenges, sleep deprivation, and an overall lack of support can all be risk factors for postpartum anxiety and depression. If you need help right now, call 988 or the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline for free, confidential support 24/7: 1-833-852-6262.

Mom’s health is just as important as baby's health. Remember: Pumping or formula are great options, too!

For postpartum support resources, visit: Arizona Chapter of Postpartum Support International.