A CONFIDENCE BOOSTER

GET READY TO FEEL BETTER ABOUT YOURSELF

”Breastfeeding helps mothers gain a confidence that lasts for a lifetime,” Sister Grove says. Louise says this is particularly true for first-time moms who may struggle with feelings of inadequacy: ”There is huge biological and psychological satisfaction in being able to nurture and nourish your child, and that can definitely boost confidence levels.”

LESS STRESS, MORE CALM

Research published in the US journal Obstetrics & Gynecology shows that breastfeeding reduces high blood pressure by an average of 12 percent. That wonder hormone oxytocin gets the credit for this one too, according to another study, which shows that women who have high amounts of oxytocin in their system – 50 percent of breastfeeding moms – have lower blood pressure, even after talking about a stressful personal problem.

Oxytocin can’t take all the credit for keeping you calm, though. The milk-making hormone prolactin also plays a part in keeping you chilled, with yet another study showing this hormone is responsible for ”a less intense response to adrenaline”.