If you're planning to breastfeed your baby, St. Joseph-s Women-s Hospital has certified lactation consultants available to make your breastfeeding experience a successful one. And our staff of well-trained nurses also offer lactation support 24 hours a day.
Breastfeeding can be one of the most enjoyable experiences for a new mother, and the health benefits are significant in both mother and baby. Breast milk is the perfect food for a baby as it contains everything a baby needs to thrive: water, proteins, fat, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, antibodies and live cells that protect your baby-s health.
It-s important to remember that while breastfeeding is natural, it is a learned skill for a new mother and baby. During the breastfeeding experience, mothers often have questions or concerns. Our lactation staff will provide education and recommend techniques to make breastfeeding easier for you and your baby. And our Women-s Health Resource Center offers a Nursing Mother class that covers the basics of breastfeeding techniques. For more information and online registration for on this class, click here or call (813) 872-2949.
Tips for breastfeeding
- Nurse your baby as early after delivery as you can
- Nurse your baby as often and as long as the baby wants to do so. It's normal for newborns to want to eat eight to 12 times in 24 hours
- As a nursing mother, you are your baby's only nutrition source. So remember to eat healthy
- Drink lots of fluids. Caffeinated beverages should be consumed in moderation while breastfeeding
- Indications that your baby is responding well to breastfeeding include:
- at least six wet diapers a day
- at least one soiled diaper a day
- you can hear the baby swallow when nursing
- breast are full before feeding and soft afterwards
