Lactation Support

Our lactation consultant RNs will help you develop the knowledge and skills to support successful breastfeeding. They offer free breastfeeding classes to take prior to delivery, instruction and support during your stay and assistance after your discharge.

Breastfeeding

We encourage you to embrace the nursing experience and to breastfeed your baby on demand. Why?

• It is good for babies
• Perfect food for baby
• Protects against diseases
• Reduces risk of ear infections, asthma, respiratory infections and diarrhea
• Protects against SIDS
• Promotes bonding
• It is good for mom
• Lowers her risk for breast and ovarian cancer, diabetes and heart disease
• The longer you breastfeed, the greater the benefit

Breastfeeding is good for family. Why?

• Breastfeeding is free
• Breastmilk is always available and at the perfect temperature
• Breastmilk is easier to digest
• Breastmilk changes to meet your baby’s growing needs
• Breastfeeding is good for the planet

Exclusive breastfeeding is best. Why?

• Breastmilk has everything your baby needs
• Do not supplement with formula unless it is medically indicated
• Feeding other foods too early can cause digestive problems
• Breastfeeding comforts baby and mom
• Breastfeeding reduces risk of early weaning
• Breastfeeding increases milk supply
• Breastfeeding reduces infant risk of jaundice and low blood sugar

Responsive feeding – or nursing your baby whenever they give you feeding cues – is an important part of your newborn’s health and development. Watch your baby for feeding cues.

• Feed on demand when your baby shows hunger signs
• Day one and two feedings are very irregular-day three baby should eat 8-12 times in a 24-hour period
• Feedings may take 30-45 minutes, time and patience are important
• Offer both breasts at each feeding
• Babies naturally cluster feed, trust yourself, your body and your baby

Signs your baby is getting enough milk.

• Happy and content after feeding
• Hearing your baby suck and swallow
• Baby is relaxed after feedings
• Breasts feel softer after feedings
• Baby has several periods of time during the day that he/she is awake and calm
• Plenty of wet and dirty diapers

• Gaining enough weight after day four

Even though breastfeeding is natural, babies will sometimes have difficulty with the process. An experienced lactation consultant is available to advise and assist you in the privacy of your suite. If you have questions after you return home, call 740-687-8953 to speak with a lactation consultant. Click here to visit the CDC for storage and preparation guidelines of breast milk.

Bottle Feeding

We also encourage you to feed your baby on demand if you choose to bottle feed instead of breastfeed. We will provide you with enough formula for each day you are with us.