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Breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding is a great choice to make for you and your baby.
At Waterbury
Hospital, our goal is to provide new mothers with the information and support
they need to
breastfeed as long as they want. Breastfeeding is the best way to nurture and
feed a newborn baby. It provides health benefits to the baby that it can get
no other way. Breastfeeding also provides benefits to the mother, and it is the most convenient and least expensive way to feed
the baby as well.
We
recommend to all mothers choosing or considering breastfeeding our
prenatal breastfeeding class, which is offered monthly. We also
offer telephone support, referrals to community
resources when needed, and we encourage mother-to-mother support
through a variety of groups available in the community.
We have many registered
nurses who are certified lactation counselors as well as an
internationally board certified lactation consultant on staff. Our
goal is to provide new mothers with
everything they need for a successful and wonderful breastfeeding
experience.
Here are some breastfeeding
support services:
-
Lactation
Consultant at Waterbury Hospital Patrice Jones, PAC, IBCLC
Phone:
203-573-6160
- Lactation Services of Southington
Phone: 860-919-5320
- Breastfeeding
Resources
Phone:
203-375-5812
- La Leche League of Connecticut
Phone:
800-563-6624
- Breastfeeding.com
- “Medication and Mother’s Milk”
Dr. Thomas Hale (resource on
medications and breastfeeding)
- Connecticut Breastfeeding Coalition
- Breastfeeding National Network by Medela,
Inc
Phone:
800-835-5968
Getting
Started:
It is important to breastfeed early and often, right after delivery
if possible. Ask your
nurse to help you. Your baby is very alert the first hour after
birth. It is important for him/her to get to know you and your
smell. Breastfeeding does not always come naturally. It takes
patience and practice, but it is worth it for you and your baby.
Benefits for
the baby:
Breastfeeding makes your baby healthier.
Breast milk is easier for your baby to digest.
Decreases your baby's chances for colds, infections and even certain
cancers.
Helps your baby's brain functions.
Helps your baby have strong teeth.
Keeps your baby healthier throughout life.
Benefits for you:
Breastfeeding will help you get back into shape easier.
Allows you to get more rest at night because you won't have to make a
bottle and warm it up.
Gives you special time with your baby.
Helps you save money! You won't have to buy formula.
While your body is busy making milk for your baby you need to
stay healthy by:
Eating healthy foods.
Getting the rest you need.
Drinking healthy liquids like milk, water and juice. |
