Breastfeeding

August is national breastfeeding month. I asked Nancy Paronich RNC, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant to write today’s article on breastfeeding. She coordinates the Lactation Center at Jordan Hospital and is whom I turn to if my patients or I have questions or concerns about breastfeeding.

The answer is one of the most natural things that a mother can do for her baby ------- breastfeed!

Human milk is the best possible food for any infant. Its major ingredients are sugar (lactose), easily digestible protein (whey and casein), and fat (digestible fatty acids)-all properly balanced to suit your baby and protect against illness such as ear infections, allergies, vomiting, diarrhea, pneumonia, wheezing, bronchiolitis, and meningitis. Breast milk contains numerous minerals and vitamins, as well as enzymes that aid the digestive process. Research indicates that babies solely nourished on breast milk for the first three months of life have higher IQ'S, fewer infections, lower cholesterol levels and a built-in, specific protection against intestinal viruses. Mothers also benefit from breastfeeding by reducing their risk of breast cancer and hastening their bodies return to its pre-pregnant state. Breastfeeding is more convenient and doesn’t cost as much money as using formula.

Starting with the American Academy of Pediatrics, more and more health care organizations are recognizing that breastfeeding is not just a "lifestyle choice," but also a "health choice" for both mothers and their children. As mothers become more educated about the importance that breastfeeding plays in normal healthy child development they understand that it is more than just a transfer of nutrients from mother to child.

Many women think that all they need to do is put the baby to their breast and the baby will know what to do. But in reality it is not always so simple. It is true, some mothers and babies never experience any problems, but many do. Breastfeeding is a learned behavior, for both mother and baby. Many problems encountered with breastfeeding are due to a lack of knowledge about how to breastfeed properly and what to expect. According to the LaLeche League, in the past, when every mother breastfed and families were not so mobile, you'd turn to your mother, grandmother, or aunt for breastfeeding help. Unfortunately, today many of us do not have that breastfeeding community to offer support and advice. Our local health care organizations can provide the education and support needed by women who choose to breastfeed their babies.

While pregnant, many women prepare for breastfeeding by attending a pre-natal breastfeeding class, such as those offered through Jordan Hospital and other area hospitals. A support person such as the Father of the baby, the Grandmother to be etc. can also attend. A little preparation will reap long-term benefits. During this class they will learn how to breastfeed, what normal newborn feeding behavior is and where answers to their particular questions can be found. Lactation consultants provide individual education and support both during the postpartum hospital stay and after discharge from the hospital.

Have you heard some women say: "I tried breastfeeding, but it didn't work," "breastfeeding was painful," "I didn't have enough milk," or "my baby did not seem satisfied?" These are common concerns that are addressed at Breastfeeding Support programs held Mondays from 12 noon to 2 pm at Jordan Hospital and on Fridays from 10 am to 12 noon both at the Jefferson School in Rockland and at the Jordan Health and Wellness Center in Halifax.

All breastfeeding mothers and pregnant women interested in breastfeeding are invited to attend these support groups, which are hosted by Peer Counselors from Jordan's Lactation Center and the Plymouth WIC program. Spend two hours in the company of health professionals and mothers who feel that breastfeeding is an important part of raising their children. Registration is not required and there is no fee for participating in the support group.

Pregnant women should carefully consider the benefits to themselves and their babies that breastfeeding offers. You can reach Nancy with questions or concerns about breastfeeding at her office @ 508-830-2239 or by email at nparonich@jordan.org.