08/01/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/01/2021 01:18
When you have a baby for the first time, there are so many things to learn how to do-giving a bath, installing the car seat, changing diapers and breastfeeding. Most of these are learned quickly, however breastfeeding may take a bit of support and education from a pediatrician, nurse or lactation consultant at the hospital.
You will learn from your hospital team that breast milk has many benefits. These include:
If you aren't sure how to breastfeed, there are nurses and lactation consultants at the hospital to help you right away. You'll learn how to position baby and make sure they are latching on properly as well as how to produce quality milk. If you have questions once you go home, talk with your pediatrician.
As with pregnancy, there are many healthy choices you can make to keep your milk filled with the nutrients baby needs.
Breastfeeding also benefits you by helping you decrease the risk of postpartum depression, helps you lose pregnancy weight, lowering the risk of diseases such as breast and ovarian cancer and creating a special closeness with baby.
While there are many positive reasons for breastfeeding, it is a personal choice and not everyone not everyone is able to breastfeed. That's ok! Your pediatrician can talk to you about formula options that can benefit your baby.
Being proactive in care for your whole family includes finding a medical home that's right for you. Adventist Health offers a wide range of providers from family medicine and pediatricians to subspecialty care for all ages. Find a provider near you by visiting AdventistHealth.org/Doctors.