Why We Promote Breastfeeding
Breastmilk is the best food for your baby and it is good for you too! CVMC
actively promotes breastfeeding through our prenatal breastfeeding classes,
our one-on-one sessions with the 2,000+ new moms who deliver at our Birthing
Center each year and our breastfeeding helpline and support groups available
after discharge. We also offer many resources to help overcome some of
the common struggles moms encounter with proper breastfeeding technique
and concerns about how to continue after returning to work or questions
about milk supply.
“Even breastfeeding for a short time is good for your baby,”
said Jackie Echelberger, RN, BS, IBCLC, one of CVMC’s International
Board Certified Lactation Consultants. “The best time to start breastfeeding
is within a few hours of birth. The mother’s breasts are not producing
milk yet but she will be producing colostrum, a thick, yellowish fluid
that is chock full of natural antibodies. It’s nature’s way
of giving a baby protection from disease while the immune system has a
chance to develop.”
Among the numerous benefits that make breastfeeding the best choice compared
to formula feeding, here are what Echelberger considers some of the most
convincing reasons:
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports that breastfed babies have
fewer illness because of the antibodies passed to infants through their
mother’s breastmilk. Breast milk antibodies protect your baby from
many illnesses (including ear infections) and allergies. The American
Academy of Pediatrics recommends “exclusive breastfeeding for about
6 months, followed by continued breastfeeding as complementary foods are
introduced, with continuation of breastfeeding for 1 year or longer as
mutually desired by mother and baby.” Although, any amount of breastmilk
a baby can receive is beneficial.
- Breastmilk is pre-packaged, pre-measured, pre-warmed and free!
- Studies have shown that women who breastfeed their babies have lower risks
of breast cancer and ovarian cancer, and possibly osteoporosis. And, since
breast-fed babies usually don’t get sick as often, there are fewer
missed days of work and less medical bills.
- Breastmilk has the right mix of nutrients that babies need when they need
it. The composition of breastmilk changes as your baby grows. And, it
is easily digested and is produced in just the right amounts for your
baby. The more you breastfeed, the more milk you make.
Our staff is committed to helping every mother embrace breastfeeding and
be as successful as possible at breastfeeding her baby. If you are interested
in learning more, please share information about the resources we offer
including:
Lactation Supplies – CVMC is ready to help moms-to-be with a full line of maternity and nursing
bras, breast pumps for purchase or rental, and Medela® breastfeeding accessories and supplies. We stock many hard to find sizes
and styles of maternity bras and tanks ranging from 32 to 44 with professional
bra fittings for nursing moms and expectant moms. Learn more, visit The
POD found on the entry level of the Women & Children’s Pavilion.
Great Start Breastfeeding Class – Certified lactation consultants answer your breastfeeding questions. An
infant scale is provided to weigh your little bundle of joy, and you can
meet other moms who are experiencing similar breastfeeding issues.
Mommy & Me Breastfeeding Support Group – Offered monthly on the 2nd Thursday and 4thFriday. Our certified lactation consultants offer instruction and support
for moms planning to breastfeed.
For more information about breastfeeding, please contact our Breastfeeding
Helpline 828.326.2086.