When a baby breastfeeds, hormones such as oxytocin and cholecystokinin are released. They give babies a feeling of calm, relaxation and contentment. Oxytocin is produced in mum too and this stimulates feeling of trust, affection and love. Oxytocin helps us to strengthen relationships and form bonds with our loved ones. Oxytocin is also a sedative so it's really normal for babies to fall asleep while they are feeding and particularly useful at night. When it's produced during a feed, it can help mums sleep too.
Of course, breastfeeding isn't just food, it's medicine. Tailor-made antibodies are created from the pathogens in mum's and baby's environment and delivered through the feed. There is a plethora of antiviral and antibacterial properties in our milk. Breastmilk also has anti-inflammatory properties. Breastfeeding is increasingly being respected as a pain relief tool and its effect is noted by researchers and health professionals as well as by mums with a teething baby at 2am!