Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is feeding a baby breast milk directly from the breast or from a bottle after expressing the milk with a pump. Breast milk provides nutrition for about the first 6 months of the baby's life. Other foods, such as cereal, are then gradually introduced while the baby continues to breastfeed.

Experts, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), recommend feeding your baby only breast milk for about 6 months. They also support breastfeeding for 2 years or longer. But your baby benefits from any amount of time that you breastfeed. Try to breastfeed for as long as it works for you and your baby.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.