During World Breast Feeding Week, Aug. 1-Aug. 7, the RMH Family Birthplace reminds new moms that breastfeeding is the healthiest option for both mom and baby.
According to the International Lactation Consultant Association, the health and nutritional status of mothers and infants are directly linked, making appropriate infant feeding a critical first step in preventing obesity, diabetes, asthma and a variety of other medical conditions.
“Breastfeeding has numerous benefits for moms and babies,” said Jennifer Baugher, RMH clinical educator. “Several studies have shown that breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months greatly reduces a child’s chances of developing asthma, ear infections, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and many other chronic and acute illnesses. Moms benefit by losing baby weight faster and decreasing the chance of developing breast cancer.”
RMH encourages all new moms to breastfeed and offers the following year-round services to patients:
· Daily lactation rounds and support by a certified lactation consultant.
· Free weekly “New Moms Ask a Nurse” group.
· Monthly breastfeeding classes.
· Free lactation pump room for use by patients and staff.
During World Breastfeeding Week, the RMH Family Birthplace will give free cookies to new moms. Baugher said the cookies will be made with ingredients believed to promote lactation.
“It’s believed that oatmeal, brewer’s yeast and flax may help breastfeeding mothers produce more milk,” Baugher says. “We hope these cookies will be a sweet way to encourage new moms.”
For more information about breastfeeding programs at RMH, call RMH Lactation Services at 540-689-3320.
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