Breastfeeding Basics: Nurturing and Nourishing Baby
posted by Jeannette Hasley on Thursday, September 6, 2018
At Spencer Hospital’s Birth Center our job isn’t done after we help you bring new life into the world through the delivery process, we’re also here to provide support for you to provide baby a great start! One of the ways our team of professionals assist parents is by aiding in breastfeeding education and support.
We believe that breastfeeding is one of the most natural interactions between a mom and her newborn. But, just because it's natural doesn't mean it's easy—especially in those first few overwhelming weeks with your newborn. To help, we provide you access to International Board Certified Lactation Consultants to help you both get off to a good start before you head home from the hospital.
Then, we invite you to come back. We offer a weekly, come-n-go, breastfeeding support hour each Wednesday between 10-11 am. We know that breastfeeding takes knowledge and practice and you likely will have a lot of questions for us. During this time, new moms can visit with our lactation consultants, covering topics such as baby latching assistance, managing sore breasts, info on pumping and storing milk, nutrition tips for mom, and other transitional concerns. Your baby can also be weighed during these weekly sessions to monitor his/her breastfeeding progress. We want to provide you with everything you need to know about breastfeeding.
You may ask why is it important for me to breastfeed my baby. Each mom needs to determine what’s personally best for her and her baby. Our goal is to provide you with information and education on the benefits of breastfeeding.
Health evidence points to numerous benefits of breast-feeding, including:
- Fewer colds and viruses for babies
- Long-term protection against diabetes, celiac diseases and Crohn’s
- Stronger bones
- Lower Sudden Infant Death Syndrome risk
- Helps mom burn more calories
- Enhances post-delivery healing
- Convenience – breast milk is always ready at the right temperature
- Cost savings as it’s an inexpensive meal for baby!
What’s best for you? You decide. But first visit with your doctor. Chat with our lactation consultants. Review the research. That precious cuddle time nourishing your baby, with breast or bottle, is truly priceless.
- breastfeeding