BREASTFEEDING

We wholeheartedly endorse breastfeeding your infant. Breastmilk is the best form of nutrition and has many benefits including lower incidence of respiratory illnesses (e.g. common cold) and gastrointestinal infections (e.g. stomach virus), ear infections, urinary tract infections, and wheezing. Over the long term, breastfeeding has also been associated with lower rates of obesity, diabetes, food allergies, adult onset heart disease related to high cholesterol, and some types of childhood cancers. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding from birth through 12 months. We feel that breastfeeding is a personal decision that you should continue for as long as it is mutually desirable for you and your child.

Breastfeeding Resources

We recommend the following books and websites for helpful information on breastfeeding

• Complete Guide to Breastfeeding by Marvin Eiger & Sally Olds
• Medications and Mother’s Milk by Thomas Hale
• Nursing Mother’s Companion by Kathleen Huggins

• American Academy of Pediatrics, Breastfeeding

Lactation Consultant

Many nursing moms need help or advice during the first weeks of breastfeeding. We recommend Best Beginnings: 804-323-BABY (2229) or A Woman’s Place: 804-545-1665, www.bonsecours.com/children/A_Womans_Place.asp