Women Find Answers With Clark Memorial Hospital's Breasfeeding Program
So when Laura needed answers, she turned to Clark Memorial Hospital's Breastfeeding Center. Clark Memorial Hospital offers the only breastfeeding program in the region with a full-time lactation consultant and breastfeeding center actually located in the hospital.
"According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, breastfeeding provides the best possible infant nutrition, while boosting the immune system," says Debbie Browning, Women's Health Coordinator for Clark Memorial Hospital.
When Patty Borden, physician relations manager for Clark Memorial Hospital, had her first child, breastfeeding was the only option she considered. "The eight months I breastfed my son was a very positive experience. Not only is it good for your child and yourself, but it also helps you bond with your new baby."
For mothers, breastfeeding lowers the incidence of ovarian cancer, breast cancer, and osteoporosis, as well as enabling easier weight loss after delivery. Borden says that within in the first three months of delivery, she was back to her normal weight.
Opened in 1999, the Breastfeeding Center offers everything from breast pump rentals to breastfeeding classes and one-on-one appointments with a certified lactation consultant. The Breastfeeding Center also offers an array of breastfeeding supplies that mothers may find helpful and convenient.
"I started with the one of the classes offered by the Center," says Pisacrita. Breastfeeding Basics classes are offered twice monthly to assist new moms with various breastfeeding techniques.
"The classes were an excellent way to introduce me to breastfeeding," continues Pisacrita. "I received specific answers to my questions and learned many useful techniques."
After Pisacrita delivered her baby at the Family Birth Place at Clark Memorial Hospital, a lactation consultant was available to show her exactly how to breastfeed her new baby and give her tips and suggestions.
"The hospital was very proactive in showing me how to breastfeed successfully and was always available to answer any questions I had," added Pisacrita.
Borden agrees. "After my son was born, I had some trouble getting him to breastfeed. However, the lactation consultant spent several hours with me until my son was ready."
The Breastfeeding Center also allows women to conveniently shop for breastfeeding supplies within the hospital. New moms can purchase pads, bras, instructional materials, and other items needed to feed her newborn.
In addition, a lactation consultant is available to help a new mom rent a breast pump that will best fit her needs. The lactation consultant will also weigh the baby to ensure that he/she is receiving the proper nourishment for growth and development.
"I was able to find everything I needed without going to another store," says Pisacrita.
Local businesses can also utilize the services offered at the Breastfeeding Center. A consultant from Clark Memorial Hospital can help them develop "breastfeeding friendly" workplaces and educate their staffs on breastfeeding basics.
"We have really developed a program that will anticipate all the needs of new mothers, and our community," says Debbie Browning.
When Borden returned to work, the Breastfeeding Center allowed her a private space to pump milk so that she could continue to breastfeed her son.
For Pisacrita, the Center has given her the knowledge and support she needed to take care of her baby.
"Since the birth of my baby, the people at the Breastfeeding Center have been available whenever I needed them," says Pisacrita. "They have really helped me make the best decisions for breastfeeding."
For more information on the Breastfeeding Center or any of its programs, call 283-2901. Or, visit our web site at www.clarkmemorial.org and click on Ask A Nurse to get answers to specific questions.
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