Breastfeeding Support
Whether a mother chooses to breastfeed or formula feed her baby, our maternity staff provides support and guidance before and after childbirth. Our breastfeeding moms receive support and advice from lactation experts who are available to answer questions, listen to concerns, and provide instruction in breastfeeding techniques.
Why Breastfeed?
The advantages of breastfeeding for both mother and baby are well documented:
- Breastfeeding provides all the nutrients a baby needs for healthy growth and development.
- Breastfed babies get fewer illnesses and are less likely to develop allergies.
- Breastfeeding is convenient: no formula to mix or bottles to warm.
- Mothers who breastfeed may reduce their risk for breast and ovarian cancer.
- Breastfeeding mothers experience faster pregnancy weight loss
- Most importantly, breastfeeding promotes a physically close and emotionally nurturing bond between mother and baby.
Comprehensive Support
Mothers and mothers-to-be who intend to breastfeed can take advantage of a variety of resources:
- Prenatal breastfeeding classes for moms and families
- 24-hour breastfeeding support by our specially trained nurses
- Support for working moms who wish to breastfeed when they return to work
- Pediatricians, neonatologists and nurses who promote breastfeeding as the healthiest way for most babies to be fed
- For mothers choosing to formula feed, the staff provides advice that includes how to mix and store formula, and how to feed the baby
- Breast pumps are available for use while you are here and can be ordered through insurance to be delivered to your home
Breastfeeding Support Center
For help with breastfeeding, mothers can call our Breastfeeding Support Center.
New Britain General Campus: 860.224.5226
Toll Free: 1.866.624.BFSC (1.866.624.2372)
An informal walk-in support group for nursing mothers meets Wednesdays 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM in the Family BirthPlace lounge. The group is facilitated by our certified lactation consultant. Topics may include technique, milk supply, pumping and returning to work. For more information, call 860.224.5226.
More Resources
Support and Evidence-Based Information
kellymom.com
La Leche League International
llli.org
2014 Medications & Mother's Milk
Thomas Hale
Hale Publishing Co.,
Amarillo, TX
2014