Metrowest Medical Center is raising awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding during World Breastfeeding Awareness Week which runs from August 1st – 7th.
This event is dedicated to highlighting the significant benefits of breastfeeding for both infant health and maternal well-being. It also emphasizes breastfeeding’s vital role in promoting good nutrition, reducing poverty, and supporting food security around the world.
This year’s theme, Prioritize Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems, underscores the importance of building long-term, supportive environments that enable mothers to breastfeed successfully and for as long as they choose.
Deborah Durgin, RNC-IBCLC, Metrowest Medical Center’s Lactation Coordinator says the hospital is fortunate to offer Pasteurized Donor Human Milk (PDHM), along with comprehensive support and education to new mothers—helping them get off to a strong and confident start in their breastfeeding experience.
“I personally enjoy supporting and educating a mother and her family throughout their breastfeeding journey, especially when she is unsure about her ability to succeed,” says Durgin. “It is a rewarding moment to see a family discharged feeling comfortable and confident in their ability to breastfeed and equipped with the community resources they need for continued success.”
She notes that an impressive number of the hospital’s new moms take advantage of follow-up community breastfeeding support.
“Our team takes particular pride in our success supporting multicultural families who choose to breastfeed,” says Durgin. “We provide education and guidance to mothers and families on the importance of breastfeeding, while also supporting and promoting their infant feeding decisions through evidence-based best practices. Our professional support team includes educated and caring RNs, as well as IBCLC- and CLC-certified RNs and MDs.”
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding as the sole source of nutrition for your baby for about 6 months and can be continued for as long as both mother and baby desire it.
For more information about Beautiful Beginnings and maternity services at Metrowest Medical Center, visit: Obstetrics | Maternity Services | MetroWest Medical Center
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