August is National Breastfeeding Month

August is National Breastfeeding Month, and World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated annually August 1-7 in more than 170 countries to encourage breastfeeding and improve the health of babies around the world. Breastfeeding is the very best way to provide infants with the nutrients they need. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that breastfeeding continue for at least 12 months and for as long as mother and baby desire. The World Health Organization recommends continued breastfeeding up to 2 years of age or beyond.

The BRMC Women and Newborn Care Center offers tips that breastfeeding has its benefits for Baby - and Mom too! Breast milk not only contains the vitamins and nutrients a baby needs, but it also helps protect him or her from illness. Studies show breast milk may protect babies from developing allergies, boost their intelligence, protect them from obesity later in life and lower the risk of SIDS. Studies have also shown that breastfeeding is good for momand#39;s health, too. Breastfeeding can reduce stress and the risk of postpartum depression, reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer later in life and may help women return to their pre-pregnancy weight faster.

The Schliemann Center for Womenandrsquo;s Health Education offers monthly breastfeeding classes and a free weekly support group for new and breastfeeding mothers. A Breastfeeding Class is scheduled Tuesday, August 18 at 6 p.m., and future classes are listed on the SCWHE section of the online calendar. New moms are welcome to drop in any Tuesday from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. for Women, Newborn and Infant Support, offering free assistance with breastfeeding, infant weight checks or any other nursing consult.

The Schliemann Center is also hosting a free live webinar, The Importance of Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy to Improve Breastfeeding Outcomes, for interested nurses and dieticians on Wednesday, August 26 from 1 to 2 p.m. The webinar is approved for 1.0 CME hours/credits, but seating is limited. Reserve your spot today!

For more information, click here, call Jaren Beavers, SCWHE Coordinator, at (870) 508-2345 or email jbeavers@baxterregional.org.

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