Support networks help nursing mothers

By Linda Klein

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Every year during the first week of August, we join in the celebration of World Breastfeeding Week. Sponsored by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action, the purpose is to “protect, promote and support breastfeeding worldwide.” This year, the focus is on “Breastfeeding Support: Close to Mothers,” which highlights breastfeeding peer counseling.

While most new mothers do plan to breastfeed following the birth of a baby, there are numerous barriers that can interrupt their success. However, a support network can help the new mother overcome any challenges that may come her way; it also will contribute to her success in nursing her new baby. New fathers, families and friends all play a part in supporting the new mother to achieve her breastfeeding goals.

The benefits of breast milk are well documented:

l The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends “exclusive breastfeeding for about the first six months of a baby's life, followed by breastfeeding in combination with the introduction of complementary foods until at least 12 months of age, and continuation of breastfeeding for as long as mutually desired by mother and baby.”

l The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for six months and that breastfeeding continue to age 2 and beyond to meet “evolving nutritional requirements.”

l The national initiative, Healthy People 2020, includes goals to increase the number of infants who are breastfed and the percentage of employers who have worksite lactation support programs.

Historically, new mothers received breastfeeding information and support from their mothers, sisters, friends and extended family. With families living farther apart and since the advent of infant formula, much of this information has been lost; new mothers must seek out assistance when they experience breastfeeding challenges.

One of the ways that Mercy Medical Center supports breastfeeding mothers in our community is through our Breastfeeding Group. Mothers can attend this weekly group to receive lactation counseling, support and information. If a mother is having a specific nursing challenge, a lactation consultant and social worker are available. One of the most amazing things about this group is to see the mothers support each other and offer encouragement to the newest mothers.

Join me in celebrating World Breastfeeding Week by supporting a nursing mom that you may know. If you are a nursing mother or an expecting mother, we invite you to attend our Breastfeeding Group from 10:30 to noon on Wednesdays in the Birthplace classroom at Mercy.

Linda Klein is director of the Birthplace at Mercy Medical Center in Cedar Rapids. Comments: lklein@mercycare.org.