Hot Topic: Breastfeeding is Best
Breastfeeding is the most normal and natural way for babies to be nourished, because human milk is designed perfectly for human babies. The Coastal Health District is committed to helping mothers breastfeed their babies because breastfeeding is so important for good health. Breastmilk is easy to digest, with just the right amount of fat, sugar, water, and protein for a baby's growth and development. Breastfed babies usually get sick less often, because breastmilk contains antibodies that can protect infants from bacterial and viral infections. Breastmilk also contains living cells that are important for optimal brain development, and breastfed babies are less likely to be overweight as adults. Research indicates women who breastfeed may have lower rates of certain breast and ovarian cancers. And breastfeeding is a great way for moms to bond with their babies.
The Coastal Health District offers breastfeeding education and support in each of our 8 counties. For more information about lactation services in your county, call the Coastal Health District's Breastfeeding Coordinator Monica Lightfoot at 912.269.2909. Monica is also available to counsel Spanish-speaking women.
Additionally, the Chatham County Health Department offers a variety of lactation services, including:
-Prenatal breastfeeding classes,
-A peer counselor program, providing mother-to-mother support and encouragement,
-A 24-hour breastfeeding hotline at 912.651.2640
-Lactation consultations with an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant
-Monthly support group meetings
-Breastpump loan program (manual and electric pumps)
-Community resource for breastfeeding education
In June of 2006, the Chatham County Health Department began a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Program. The 4 peer counselors – who are also breastfeeding mothers – educate pregnant moms about the importance of breastfeeding, and help new moms begin and continue breastfeeding their babies. Counselors are also available at night and on weekends to provide support anytime a mom needs advice or encouragement.
For more information about lactation services available through the Chatham County Health Department, call 912.651.2640 or email Chatham County Health Department Lactation Program Coordinator Pamela Ehret. You do not have to be WIC-eligible to receive breastfeeding support.
You can also find more information online by visiting womenshealth.gov.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists is campaigning to increase employer support for breastfeeding. Read their press release by clicking here.
WWW Address: http://www.gachd.org/hot-topic/breastfeeding_is_best_for_babi.php