- Breast milk provides perfect nutrition for growing babies
- Breastfeeding protects babies from infections
- Studies have shown that breastfeeding is linked to improved intelligence
- Nursing lowers a mother’s risk for breast cancer, diabetes, and osteoporosis
- Breastfeeding can help new moms lose their pregnancy weight by burning an extra 500 calories daily
- Breastfeeding is free and convenient
More information on the benefits of breastfeeding and tips can be found on www.womenshealth.gov.
The decision to breastfeed is a positive one for both you and your baby. By choosing to breastfeed, you are giving your baby the healthiest start possible. But it isn't always easy. Sometimes mothers need help with breastfeeding, no matter how many times they have done it.
At Intermountain hospitals a lactation consultant is available to help while mom and baby are in the hospital. After discharge, Intermountain Lactation Clinics provide consults for a small fee. Here are the locations and phone numbers for the clinics. Info is also available IntermountainHealthcare.org.
- A Mother’s Touch, Orem, 801-714-3324
- Breastfeeding Matters, Ogden, 801-387-4132
- Logan Regional Hospital, Logan, 435-716-2560
- Dixie Regional Medical Center, St. George, 435-688-4496
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for at least the first year of your baby’s life. In fact, the AAP recommends that for the first 6 months, mother’s milk should be the only food your baby receives. After the first year, breastfeeding should continue for as long as mother and baby wish.