With more and more moms choosing to breastfeed their newborn, Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital is finding that its new Breastfeeding Support Group has become quite popular.
The First Week’s Breastfeeding Support Group meets Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and has grown from three postpartum mothers to close to 20 each week.
“New mothers often need assistance with breastfeeding and we are so pleased to be able to offer this program for them,” said Mary Beth Sweet, one of three lactation consultants who facilitates the support group. “The response has been tremendous and it’s nice to know we’re making available something that is needed in the community.”
The weekly support group is open to all lactating mothers with newborns up to three months old. The support group meets in the ARU Dining Room in Henry Mayo Hospital’s Pavilion. Cost is $10 per person.
“At Henry Mayo, we are committed to supporting mothers in a warm, nurturing, caring atmosphere throughout their breastfeeding experience,” said Sally McGann, director of Women’s Services Unit. “We not only address all breastfeeding issues but also provide a place where mothers can meet other mothers of young infants and discuss related topics, such as growth spurts, developmental milestones, and sleep issues.”
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding throughout the first year of life, with the belief that breast milk is “the optimal form of nutrition for infant growth and development.”
Beyond the vital bonding experience, health benefits provided through breastfeeding are encouraging. They include reduced illness and infection, and increased life expectancy.
The support group is one of several new services offered by the hospital’s Lactation Services team. Services also available include a prenatal breastfeeding workshop, inpatient and outpatient bedside assistance and follow-up care, critical information on tools and products, as well as solutions to breastfeeding problems.
For more information about Henry Mayo’s Lactation Services, please call 661-253-8238 or visit www.henrymayo.com .