Lactation Services
As an aspiring Baby-Friendly hospital, we are committed to the education and support a new mother needs to establish breastfeeding. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby's life, followed by breastfeeding in combination with the introduction of complementary foods until at least 12 months of age. If a woman chooses not to breastfeed that long, it’s still a good idea to nurse for the first six months.
Our Lactation Services staff consists of registered nurses and/or certified lactation consultants. Our goal is to help women ease into breastfeeding and infant care through education, counseling, and support.
Breastfeeding is Healthy
Breastfeeding has been proven to be healthy for both Mother and Baby.
- Breast milk is the ideal first baby food as it provides balanced nutrition and is a loving, nurturing way to strengthen the bond between mother and baby.
- Breastfeeding provides an infant with maternal antibodies that strengthen the immune system and help the little one stay healthy; studies show breastfeeding may help protect a baby against common illnesses such as diarrhea, ear infections, and pneumonia, as well as sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), juvenile diabetes, and childhood cancers.
- Breastfeeding helps protect women against breast and ovarian cancer, anemia, and osteoporosis
- Mothers who breastfeed and return to work tend to take fewer sick days and are often more productive and happier with their work situation
