US Medical Term · maternity
Breastfeeding
Lactancia materna
Also: Amamantamiento (regional variant)
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Breastfeeding |
| Spanish (Español) | Lactancia materna |
| Chinese (中文) | 母乳哺育 |
| Korean (한국어) | 모유 수유 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Cho con bú sữa mẹ |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Pagpapasuso |
| Portuguese (Português) | Amamentação |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | การให้นมบุตร |
| Japanese (日本語) | 母乳育児 |
What it means
Breastfeeding is feeding your baby with milk produced by your own body. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, then continuing alongside solid foods until at least 12 months. Breast milk provides antibodies, nutrients, and hormones tailored to your baby's needs. Early milk, called colostrum, is especially rich in immune factors. Breastfeeding also benefits the mother by reducing risks of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and postpartum depression. Many challenges like latch problems or low supply can be addressed with help from a lactation consultant.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
My baby isn't latching properly — can I see a lactation consultant before I leave the hospital?
Mi bebé no está prendiendo bien al pecho — ¿puedo ver a una consultora de lactancia antes de irme del hospital?
How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk when breastfeeding?
¿Cómo sé si mi bebé está recibiendo suficiente leche al amamantar?
Are there any medications I take that could affect breastfeeding safety?
¿Hay algún medicamento que tome que pueda afectar la seguridad de la lactancia materna?
Where you'll see it
Related ICD-10-CM category
Z39 Encounter for maternal postpartum care and examinationRelated terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026