In-person breastfeeding classes resume June 15 at Children’s & Women’s Hospital
Lactation consultants will promote interactive learning during the free classes, which are open to the public.
New breastfeeding moms may experience some challenges as they welcome a little one into the world and embark on unfamiliar routines. To help expectant mothers and those who recently delivered give their babies a healthy start, Children’s & Women’s Hospital will again offer in-person breastfeeding classes beginning Thursday, June 15. The classes are free and open to the public. Online registration is required.
“In-person classes are important to allow parents the opportunity to learn basic breastfeeding information,” said Tammy Doherty, RNC-MNN, IBCLC, a lactation consultant at Children’s & Women’s. “It allows time for interactive learning and the opportunity to ask questions from trained clinicians.”
The classes, which run from 6 to 8 p.m., will be held once a month at the hospital’s midtown Mobile campus at 1700 Center Street.
“Our hospital strives to promote and support breastfeeding, as it provides lifelong health benefits for both mothers and babies,” Doherty said.
The World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatricians recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a child’s life. (This includes expressed breast milk.) Exclusive breastfeeding allows infants to grow and develop with a healthier immune system, and mothers benefit because it lowers their risk for certain illnesses, including breast and ovarian cancer, Doherty said.
Research shows that other benefits for babies include fewer ear infections and lower rates of asthma, eczema, and gastrointestinal issues. Moms who breastfeed report increased confidence in themselves for being able to provide this healthy start, Doherty said.
Children’s & Women’s Hospital has a long history of helping to protect, promote and support breastfeeding, being recognized for its efforts four times in recent years by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners for excellence in lactation care.
