The Many Advantages of Breastfeeding
Many studies have shown that breastfeeding is best for mother and baby. From a reduction in the risk of certain cancers for women to an increase in children’s immune systems, breastfeeding is a win-win for many moms and babies.
Benefits for mom:
- Reduces the risk of osteoporosis, ovarian cancer, and breast cancer
- Breastfeeding hormones help moms feel more calm and connected to their babies
- Decreases postpartum bleeding
- Can help moms return to their pre-pregnancy weight sooner
Benefits for baby:
- Boosts immune system; reduces incidence of ear infections, allergies, and leukemia in children
- Enhances brain development
- Reduces risk of childhood obesity and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
- Reduces GI and respiratory illness
For more recommendations on infant feeding, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics’ informative online article here.
Find Breastfeeding Help at Your Local Southcoast Hospital
In addition, each of our maternity units at Southcoast Health offers the services of trained and certified lactation consultants in Fall River and New Bedford, MA. These are nurses whose job is to promote breastfeeding and educate and assist moms to achieve success in their efforts.
Take Advantage of the Southcoast Baby Café
Southcoast is proud to host Baby Café, a friendly and comfortable drop-in session for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers to learn more about breastfeeding. Mothers can relax, share tips and techniques, and socialize with other moms. Peer support and one-on-one help from specially trained health professionals is available, including professional lactation support.
The Baby Café program is led locally by our Southcoast Lactation Team as a free service for pregnant mothers in our community.
Special note regarding COVID-19 safety protocols: For the safety and wellbeing of all, Southcoast Health is proud to offer options for all our Southcoast Baby Café sessions via Zoom. There are also options for an in-person course with limited space at this time: up to 10 people at a time, breastfeeding mothers only. For the latest locations and schedule, visit our events calendar or reach out to us at the information below.
To speak with a lactation consultant, call:
Charlton Memorial Hospital — 508-973-MILK
St. Luke’s Hospital — 508-997-MILK
To register for a breastfeeding class, call:
Charlton Memorial Hospital — 508-973-7308
St. Luke’s Hospital — 508-973-5445
Southcoast Health works with moms in Fall River, New Bedford and surrounding areas to offer breastfeeding resources like the Baby Café.