The OB/GYN team at Independence Health System is here to prepare you and
your family for one of life's most important events through education,
information and preparation.
Nothing can duplicate the properties of breast milk, no matter how many
vitamins, minerals and supplements are added to what is basically a chemical
formulation. Breast milk remains the one and only natural, complete and
complex nutrition for human infants. It is nature’s formula for
ensuring the health and quality of life for infants, as well as through
childhood to adult life. Just as importantly, breastfeeding promotes a
very special bond between mother and child that only a mother can provide.
It is important to breastfeed your baby exclusively for 6 months and continue
to breastfeed after your baby starts eating solid foods.
Health Benefits for Babies Who Breastfeed
Protection against diarrhea, gastroenteritis and other stomach upsets
Reduced risk of childhood diabetes
Protection against ear infections, respiratory illnesses, allergies and asthma
Reduced risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome)
Protection against meningitis, childhood lymphoma, Crohn’s disease
and ulcerative enterocolitis
Reduced incidence and severity of allergic disease
Improved brain and nervous system development and development of higher IQs
Reduced risk of heart disease later in life
Increased bone density
Known to play an important role in emotional development
Enjoyment of a special warm bonding and emotional relationship between
baby and mother
Health Benefits to Mothers Who Breastfeed
Reduced risk of breast, ovarian and endometrial cancers
Reduced risk of anemia
Protection against osteoporosis and hip fracture later in life
Reduced risk of mortality for women with rheumatoid arthritis
Quicker return of mother’s body to its pre-pregnancy state
Helps to delay the return of fertility and to space subsequent pregnancies
Development of a special emotional relationship and bonding with her child
Reduction or elimination of the cost of formula (in the thousands of dollars
per year) since breast milk is free
Breastfed babies are sick less, thus reducing health care costs to family
and requiring less time off work
What is Colostrum?
Colostrum is the first milk your body produces to feed your baby. It is
yellow in color and thicker than mature milk. It has many important benefits
for your baby.
Your body starts to make colostrum during pregnancy – usually about
the time you first feel your body move.
It is the baby’s perfect first food because it is easier to digest
and use than true milk.
It acts as your baby’s first immunization because it is so rich in
antibodies and immunities.
Colostrum is full of nutrients, antibodies and immunities that will coat
your baby’s gut and help to protect against infections such as E. Coli.
Colostrum works as a natural laxative and helps your baby to pass the meconium
(thick, black, sticky stool), which helps to avoid jaundice.
It should be given to your baby before anything else enters the system,
which is why breastfeeding right after delivery is so important.
The first feed of colostrum is only about one to two teaspoons, the perfect
amount for your baby’s immature gut, which is about the size of a walnut.
Your baby will breastfeed eight to 12 times in 24 hours and get about an
ounce of colostrum, which is all the nourishment it needs until the milk comes.
Pre-term colostrum has an even greater potential for preventing infection
than term colostrum, so a premature baby needs colostrum.
Breastfeeding colostrum is something wonderful you can do that will provide
your baby with a healthier start.
Breastfeeding Support
These classes promote successful breastfeeding by providing information
about techniques, newborn feeding behaviors, and common challenges. A
baby doll is required, and a support person is strongly encouraged. Classes
are taught by lactation consultants.
Classes Offered
In-Person Education
Breastfeeding Success Class – Westmoreland Area, registration required
Breastfeeding Education Classes - Butler and Clarion Area, registration required
Mom and Baby Breastfeeding Support Group - Clarion Area, no registration required
This is a free support group taught by a certified lactation consultant.
This is open to any new parent in the community, even if you did not deliver
at Independence Health System. Registration is not required for this support group.
