In my years of practice, both as a midwife and as a Lactation Consultant, I have always advised mothers to learn to hand express their breast milk. One of the reasons for this is that doing so aids latching-on by newborns and increases milk production and flow.
A very recent research article has confirmed this practice. A small study published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood showed that expressing breast milk by hand in the first days after birth is better for boosting breastfeeding rates among poorly feeding newborns than the use of a breast pump.
The results are based on the findings from 68 mothers whose newborns were latching on to the nipple or sucking poorly 12 to 36 hours after birth. The women were randomly assigned to either 15 minutes of using a breast pump or 15 minutes of manual breast milk expression in a bid to encourage their babies to breastfeed.
Afterwards, the amount of milk produced and suckled, pain levels, and confidence in breastfeeding were assessed. Breastfeeding rates were then monitored when the babies were one week, one month and two months old. By the age of two months, breastfeeding rates were higher among those babies whose mothers first expressed their breast milk by hand than those who first used a breast pump; almost all the mothers (97%) assigned to manual expression were breastfeeding compared with just under 73% of those assigned to the breast pump.
Most who used a breast pump at two months said they did so to store milk for occasions when they would be unable to feed their child in person. Just 15% said they did so to boost their milk supply. But mothers who expressed manually said they were more comfortable being seen to do so than mothers who used a breast pump.
The authors point out that breast pumping is a fast, efficient method of milk expression, once the milk supply is established. They strongly suggested, "Providers should consider teaching hand expression instead of pumping to mothers of healthy term newborns feeding poorly after birth, in cases where either method of expression might be appropriate."
A Lactation Consultant can advise on manual hand expression of breast milk and it is important to get this education as early as possible after giving birth, before any breast feeding issues arise.
(To make an appointment with our boobie guru, and hear more sage words from this wise woman, call Lani at 226-9063)
Showing posts with label breastfeeding. Show all posts
Showing posts with label breastfeeding. Show all posts
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
World Breastfeeding Week at Baby A
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Solving the Breastpump Mystery
Saturday, May 7th at 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
Led by: Pat Bilyk, IBCLC
Cost: $20/person or $35/couple
Have you ever asked yourself....
*Do I really need a breastpump?
*What is the best breastpump for me?
*How do I know the best breastpump for my specific situation?
*How do I use a breastpump?
Then this class is for you!
Join Pat Bilyk*, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) as she shares her expertise on the "hows" and "whys" of the breastpumps presently on the market plus go over the top and most popular pumps on the market today.
*Pat Bilyk is an IBCLC, masters prepared nurse who has practiced in Hawaii
for 27 years. Her experiences have been as a Lactation Consultant at Kapiolani and Kaiser Medical Centers, Executive Director at Hawaii Mother's Milk, Sales Rep for Medela and a Lactation Consultant in her own business-Healthy New Beginnings.
Please call 988-0010 or e-mail lani@babyawearness.com to RSVP
Led by: Pat Bilyk, IBCLC
Cost: $20/person or $35/couple
Have you ever asked yourself....
*Do I really need a breastpump?
*What is the best breastpump for me?
*How do I know the best breastpump for my specific situation?
*How do I use a breastpump?
Then this class is for you!
Join Pat Bilyk*, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) as she shares her expertise on the "hows" and "whys" of the breastpumps presently on the market plus go over the top and most popular pumps on the market today.
*Pat Bilyk is an IBCLC, masters prepared nurse who has practiced in Hawaii
for 27 years. Her experiences have been as a Lactation Consultant at Kapiolani and Kaiser Medical Centers, Executive Director at Hawaii Mother's Milk, Sales Rep for Medela and a Lactation Consultant in her own business-Healthy New Beginnings.
Please call 988-0010 or e-mail lani@babyawearness.com to RSVP
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
A Must-Know for All Working Moms!
Breastfeeding-Friendly Workplace and the New Health Care Law Regulations
Thursday, April 14th at 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Led by Pat Bilyk, RN, IBCLC
Cost: $20 per person / $35 per couple
Offered for the first time, this incredibly important and relevant presentation will cover all the essential issues working moms wanting to breastfeed need to know. Pat Bilyk, a seasoned lactation consultant, will share how women can influence their work environments to make it a more breastfeeding-friendly place, in addition to instilling the confidence to do so through informed rights and choices.
Learn about
Pat Bilyk is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, masters-prepared nurse who has practiced in Hawaii for over 27 years. Pat has specialized in breastfeeding in Hawaii for nearly 30 years and her experience as a lactation consultant includes helping moms at Kapiolani and Kaiser Medical Centers, as Executive Director of Hawaii Mother's Milk, a Medela sales rep, and through her own private practice, Healthy New Beginnings.
Nicky Naoko Lawnsby, Baby Awearness's full-time, in-store lactation consultant, will also be present. Nicky is an IBCLC certified Lactation Consultant and has over 20 years of experience in midwifery, breastfeeding, and women's health.
To RSVP, please contact 988-0010 or lani@babyawearness.com
Coming up on May 7th: Solving the Breast Pump Mystery ~ a workshop on tips and troubleshooting breastfeeding and pumping issues
Thursday, April 14th at 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Led by Pat Bilyk, RN, IBCLC
Cost: $20 per person / $35 per couple
Offered for the first time, this incredibly important and relevant presentation will cover all the essential issues working moms wanting to breastfeed need to know. Pat Bilyk, a seasoned lactation consultant, will share how women can influence their work environments to make it a more breastfeeding-friendly place, in addition to instilling the confidence to do so through informed rights and choices.
Learn about
- What is a Breastfeeding-Friendly Workplace?
- How to plan to return to work
- The New Health Care Law Provisions for working, breastfeeding women, their rights, and their worksite.
Pat Bilyk is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, masters-prepared nurse who has practiced in Hawaii for over 27 years. Pat has specialized in breastfeeding in Hawaii for nearly 30 years and her experience as a lactation consultant includes helping moms at Kapiolani and Kaiser Medical Centers, as Executive Director of Hawaii Mother's Milk, a Medela sales rep, and through her own private practice, Healthy New Beginnings.
Nicky Naoko Lawnsby, Baby Awearness's full-time, in-store lactation consultant, will also be present. Nicky is an IBCLC certified Lactation Consultant and has over 20 years of experience in midwifery, breastfeeding, and women's health.
To RSVP, please contact 988-0010 or lani@babyawearness.com
Coming up on May 7th: Solving the Breast Pump Mystery ~ a workshop on tips and troubleshooting breastfeeding and pumping issues
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Is it time to wean yet?
by Holli Shiro
PART TWO
When you’re ready to start weaning, weaning can be mother-led or baby-led, but often it is a combination of both, with the mother watching for cues that her child is ready to be nudged a little closer to weaning completely from the breast. Some moms may be ready to wean completely, others may be feeling overwhelmed by the number of nursing sessions in a day, but aren’t quite ready to wean completely. Cutting down on nursing sessions can help bring some balance back to her life. It is generally not advisable to wean abruptly since this can be traumatizing to the child and cause mom to be susceptible to plugged ducts and mastitis.
Common weaning strategies
Nursing is about more than just nutrition for mother and child. For the child, it is a source of comfort and love, and as many experienced moms know, a quick nursing session can soothe an upset child, calm down an over-stimulated one or serves as a no-fail way to get their baby to sleep. When you are taking away this experience at the breast for your child, it needs to be replaced with something that conveys the same message of love and comfort.
1. Don’t offer, don’t refuse: you can stop offering nursing sessions, but at the same time, nurse if her child requests it or clearly needs it.
2. Use distraction or substitution: if child asks to nurse, offer a snack or to read a book or play a game instead. You can also change parts of your daily routine to eliminate a predictable nursing time.
3. Use delay: if child asks to nurse, tell her you’ll do it after you finish the dishes or fold the laundry, etc. The child may forget about nursing by the time you are finished.
4. Limit nursing sessions. You can set limits, such as only nursing at home, not in public or nursing for the duration of a song or to the count of 10.
5. Involve dad or other family member in distracting child from a nursing session you want to drop. Can be especially helpful at bedtime or first thing in the morning.
PART TWO
When you’re ready to start weaning, weaning can be mother-led or baby-led, but often it is a combination of both, with the mother watching for cues that her child is ready to be nudged a little closer to weaning completely from the breast. Some moms may be ready to wean completely, others may be feeling overwhelmed by the number of nursing sessions in a day, but aren’t quite ready to wean completely. Cutting down on nursing sessions can help bring some balance back to her life. It is generally not advisable to wean abruptly since this can be traumatizing to the child and cause mom to be susceptible to plugged ducts and mastitis.
Common weaning strategies
Nursing is about more than just nutrition for mother and child. For the child, it is a source of comfort and love, and as many experienced moms know, a quick nursing session can soothe an upset child, calm down an over-stimulated one or serves as a no-fail way to get their baby to sleep. When you are taking away this experience at the breast for your child, it needs to be replaced with something that conveys the same message of love and comfort.
1. Don’t offer, don’t refuse: you can stop offering nursing sessions, but at the same time, nurse if her child requests it or clearly needs it.
2. Use distraction or substitution: if child asks to nurse, offer a snack or to read a book or play a game instead. You can also change parts of your daily routine to eliminate a predictable nursing time.
3. Use delay: if child asks to nurse, tell her you’ll do it after you finish the dishes or fold the laundry, etc. The child may forget about nursing by the time you are finished.
4. Limit nursing sessions. You can set limits, such as only nursing at home, not in public or nursing for the duration of a song or to the count of 10.
5. Involve dad or other family member in distracting child from a nursing session you want to drop. Can be especially helpful at bedtime or first thing in the morning.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Is It Time to Wean Yet?
by Holli Shiro
PART ONE
Technically speaking, weaning begins when something other than breastmilk is introduced to baby. For some babies weaning begins with a supplemental bottle of formula, for others it’s their first taste of rice cereal or smashed bananas. From this perspective, weaning is often a long process of gradually replacing breastmilk with other foods over the period of six months to several years. Many mothers hear that their breastmilk no longer nutritionally benefits their baby after six months or one year of age. On the contrary, breastmilk continues to be highly nutritious and delivers immunological benefits to a growing baby or toddler for as long as they are breastfeeding.
The World Health Organization recommends: “Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended up to 6 months of age, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond.”
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends: “Pediatricians and parents should be aware that exclusive breastfeeding is sufficient to support optimal growth and development for approximately the first 6 months of life and provides continuing protection against diarrhea and respiratory tract infection. Breastfeeding should be continued for at least the first year of life and beyond for as long as mutually desired by mother and child.”
Natural weaning age
Anthropologist Katherine Dettwyler has studied weaning ages in primates according to different variables, such as weaning according to tripling or quadrupling birth weight, gestation length, attaining 1/3 of adult weight, adult body size and weaning according to emergence of permanent molars. When applied to humans, natural weaning age ranges from a minimum of two years old to a maximum of seven years old. Of course, cultural norms play a large part in deciding when to wean completely from the breast. For non-western cultures, nursing until age 3 is common. Mothers in western cultures often wean at a much younger age.
Deciding to wean: what to consider
Child’s reasons for continuing to nurse:
Tastes good, feels good, source of comfort and quality time with mom
Child’s reasons for weaning:
Distracted by other activities, eating and drinking other foods
Mom’s reasons for continuing to nurse:
Easy and free, good nutrition and immunological benefits, mothering tool
Mom’s reasons for weaning:
Feels “touched out”, returning to work or school, desires return of fertility, outside pressures
PART ONE
Technically speaking, weaning begins when something other than breastmilk is introduced to baby. For some babies weaning begins with a supplemental bottle of formula, for others it’s their first taste of rice cereal or smashed bananas. From this perspective, weaning is often a long process of gradually replacing breastmilk with other foods over the period of six months to several years. Many mothers hear that their breastmilk no longer nutritionally benefits their baby after six months or one year of age. On the contrary, breastmilk continues to be highly nutritious and delivers immunological benefits to a growing baby or toddler for as long as they are breastfeeding.
The World Health Organization recommends: “Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended up to 6 months of age, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond.”
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends: “Pediatricians and parents should be aware that exclusive breastfeeding is sufficient to support optimal growth and development for approximately the first 6 months of life and provides continuing protection against diarrhea and respiratory tract infection. Breastfeeding should be continued for at least the first year of life and beyond for as long as mutually desired by mother and child.”
Natural weaning age
Anthropologist Katherine Dettwyler has studied weaning ages in primates according to different variables, such as weaning according to tripling or quadrupling birth weight, gestation length, attaining 1/3 of adult weight, adult body size and weaning according to emergence of permanent molars. When applied to humans, natural weaning age ranges from a minimum of two years old to a maximum of seven years old. Of course, cultural norms play a large part in deciding when to wean completely from the breast. For non-western cultures, nursing until age 3 is common. Mothers in western cultures often wean at a much younger age.
Deciding to wean: what to consider
Child’s reasons for continuing to nurse:
Tastes good, feels good, source of comfort and quality time with mom
Child’s reasons for weaning:
Distracted by other activities, eating and drinking other foods
Mom’s reasons for continuing to nurse:
Easy and free, good nutrition and immunological benefits, mothering tool
Mom’s reasons for weaning:
Feels “touched out”, returning to work or school, desires return of fertility, outside pressures
Monday, December 27, 2010
How Important Is Breastfeeding, Really?
PART 2: What do moms say?
(comments from moms of the La Leche League of Central Oahu group)
Breastfeeding is Practical:
Breastfeeding Deepens Attachment:
Breastfeeding Helps You Know How To Be a Mother:
(comments from moms of the La Leche League of Central Oahu group)
Breastfeeding is Practical:
- No hassle or worry about preparation of formula, nothing to sterilize, heat up, clean up
- Breastfeeding is available anytime, anyplace
- Breastfeeding is instant gratification for baby
- Often delays the return of your period
- No worry about baby getting good nutrition
- Economical (it’s free!)
- Helps with losing pregnancy weight
Breastfeeding Deepens Attachment:
- Helps at birth to bond and overcome the newness for baby and mother
- Hormones released during breastfeeding makes you feel good
- Helps you reconnect with your baby during tough times
- Love how baby looks into your eyes during nursing
- Skin to skin contact enhances bond
- Helps baby feel better when they are tired, hungry or hurt
- Nice knowing there’s always something to do to help your baby, a “quick fix”
Breastfeeding Helps You Know How To Be a Mother:
- Gives confidence in mothering abilities
- You’re more in tune with your baby so you can pick up on their cues sooner
- Perseverance through difficulties shows your strength and helps you confront challenges
- Opportunities for mother-to-mother bonding
- More reliance on your maternal instincts, takes outside pressure off and reassure you that you’re doing a good job
Sunday, December 26, 2010
How Important Is Breastfeeding, Really?
PART 1: What does the research say?
(from The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, 8th edition)
There’s no formula that comes even close to the milk your body creates. Your milk has every vitamin, mineral and other nutritional element that your baby’s body needs, including many that haven’t been discovered or named yet.
Living cells unique to breastmilk inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses in your baby’s still-maturing system.
Interferons and inter-leukins are powerful anti-infectives found in breastmilk (they would cost a fortune if they were for sale!)
Without his normal food, baby is at higher risk for ear infections, intestinal upsets and respiratory problems. Allergy and dental problems are more common. Vision, nerves and intestines don’t develop fully.
With artificial baby food, a baby’s kidneys and liver work harder to process wastes products from formula. Baby’s immune system’s response to vaccinations is less effective.
The risk of SIDS and infant death from many other causes is higher if a baby isn’t breastfed.
Colostrum “seals” baby’s brand-new intestinal walls to protect against foreign germs and proteins that could create allergic sensitivities.
When baby is breastfed, his jaw muscles are exercised and massaged in a way that causes the bones in his face and jaw to develop more fully.
When your newborn takes your breast soon after delivery, your uterus contracts and bleeding slows.
Women who haven’t breastfed are at greater risk for metabolic syndrome, which is a risk factor for heart disease and diabetes.
Breastfeeding is an insurance policy against breast, uterine and cervical cancer, meaning you are less susceptible to them. Osteoporosis and fractures are more common in women who didn’t breastfeed.
There’s a surge of hormones (prolactin and oxytocin) in your body every time you breastfeed that makes you feel loving and nurturing, promoting bonding and attachment to your baby.
(from The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, 8th edition)
There’s no formula that comes even close to the milk your body creates. Your milk has every vitamin, mineral and other nutritional element that your baby’s body needs, including many that haven’t been discovered or named yet.
Living cells unique to breastmilk inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses in your baby’s still-maturing system.
Interferons and inter-leukins are powerful anti-infectives found in breastmilk (they would cost a fortune if they were for sale!)
Without his normal food, baby is at higher risk for ear infections, intestinal upsets and respiratory problems. Allergy and dental problems are more common. Vision, nerves and intestines don’t develop fully.
With artificial baby food, a baby’s kidneys and liver work harder to process wastes products from formula. Baby’s immune system’s response to vaccinations is less effective.
The risk of SIDS and infant death from many other causes is higher if a baby isn’t breastfed.
Colostrum “seals” baby’s brand-new intestinal walls to protect against foreign germs and proteins that could create allergic sensitivities.
When baby is breastfed, his jaw muscles are exercised and massaged in a way that causes the bones in his face and jaw to develop more fully.
When your newborn takes your breast soon after delivery, your uterus contracts and bleeding slows.
Women who haven’t breastfed are at greater risk for metabolic syndrome, which is a risk factor for heart disease and diabetes.
Breastfeeding is an insurance policy against breast, uterine and cervical cancer, meaning you are less susceptible to them. Osteoporosis and fractures are more common in women who didn’t breastfeed.
There’s a surge of hormones (prolactin and oxytocin) in your body every time you breastfeed that makes you feel loving and nurturing, promoting bonding and attachment to your baby.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Baby A's Unique Lactation Services
Our very own Nicky Lawnsby, beloved by many moms and babies, is featured on Hawaii Web TV this month!
As you know, Nicky is our in-house lactation consultant but she is so much more than that.
As a bilingual (English and Japanese) British certified-Nurse Midwife, Nicky is able to help both the local and Japanese community here in Honolulu. She really understands and connects with the needs of mums and babies, providing the highest level of care through a process of holistic and informed choices. Nicky is also one of the few International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) on Oahu, which means she specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding issues including complications, breast massage, and mum and baby nutrition. She also offers pre- and post-natal consultation and education.
Nicky has an interesting and well-respected background in midwifery work with her experience stemmed in over three generations and a long lineage of medical family members. Her grandmother was an amazing midwife who not only delivered her, but also delivered/attended over 5,000 natural births in her small birthing home in Japan. Her mother also practiced midwifery for over 30 years with her father as an obstetrician and gynecologist, and her grandfather was a pediatrician. So needless to say, right from the start, Nicky was surrounded by birthing, nurturing, and natural parenting.
Nicky deeply believes that natural birth, breast feeding, and parenting, are ALL natural god-given rights. Women need to know how to successfully accomplish these goals and that is her mission. Only then can woman be empowered to be happy, confident and proud.
On top of all that she does for moms and their little ones, she is the co-owner of Baby Awearness and manages the business along with Ashley Lukens.
You can find both a Japanese and English version of the story. Many thanks to Shinogu Sato of Hawaii Web TV for the web coverage!
As you know, Nicky is our in-house lactation consultant but she is so much more than that.
As a bilingual (English and Japanese) British certified-Nurse Midwife, Nicky is able to help both the local and Japanese community here in Honolulu. She really understands and connects with the needs of mums and babies, providing the highest level of care through a process of holistic and informed choices. Nicky is also one of the few International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) on Oahu, which means she specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding issues including complications, breast massage, and mum and baby nutrition. She also offers pre- and post-natal consultation and education.
Nicky has an interesting and well-respected background in midwifery work with her experience stemmed in over three generations and a long lineage of medical family members. Her grandmother was an amazing midwife who not only delivered her, but also delivered/attended over 5,000 natural births in her small birthing home in Japan. Her mother also practiced midwifery for over 30 years with her father as an obstetrician and gynecologist, and her grandfather was a pediatrician. So needless to say, right from the start, Nicky was surrounded by birthing, nurturing, and natural parenting.
Nicky deeply believes that natural birth, breast feeding, and parenting, are ALL natural god-given rights. Women need to know how to successfully accomplish these goals and that is her mission. Only then can woman be empowered to be happy, confident and proud.
On top of all that she does for moms and their little ones, she is the co-owner of Baby Awearness and manages the business along with Ashley Lukens.
You can find both a Japanese and English version of the story. Many thanks to Shinogu Sato of Hawaii Web TV for the web coverage!
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Tips for New Moms
Words of Wisdom from Real Mothers at La Leche League Meetings
From The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, 8th edition
· Newborns don’t look like magazine babies.
· A dirty house builds extra immunities.
· Wait long enough and it will change, and the questions and answers will be different.
· Sometimes the books are just wrong.
· A dog is an excellent floor cleaner.
· The ideal adult-to-baby ratio is about three to one in the first week.
· When people offer help, say yes.
· Listen to your baby. Respect him and his intuition. He will tell you what he needs.
· You can only do what you can do.
· Step outside when you can, throw your shoulders back, take a deep breath, and look up for at least a few seconds.
· It’s important to see other babies, so you know what’s normal.
· Join a playgroup. It’s not for the child, it’s for the mother.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Back By Popular Demand: Boob Guru's Intro to Breastfeeding for Pregnant Moms
When: Sunday, October 3rd at 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Led by: Baby A's very own boob guru Naoko "Nicky" Lawnsby
Cost: $20 per person / $35 per couple
Learn all about breastfeeding from Honolulu's boob guru Nicky Lawnsby!
In this class, you will gain important knowledge to help mothers successfully feed their baby nature's way:
* The basics of breastfeeding your newborn: latching, positioning, and breastfeeding cues
* The basic anatomy and physiology of breastfeeding
* The myths of breastfeeding
* What to expect in the hospital and at home
* How to prepare for returning to work
Partners are strongly encouraged to attend.
Nicky is Baby Awearness's full-time, in-store lactation consultant who specializes in the very effective technique of traditional Japanese lactation massage. Nicky is also an IBCLC certified Lactation Consultant and has over 20 years of experience in midwifery, breastfeeding, and women's health.
To reserve a spot at the lecture, please contact 988-0010 or lani@babyawearness.com Preference will be given to those with due date in 2010. Maximum attendance is 10 people. Waitlist will be available on a first-come basis.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
If you cannot make the lecture and need help with breastfeeding, Nicky is available for personal, one-on-one consultations. Please contact Lani Lee at 988-0010 to schedule an appointment.
Led by: Baby A's very own boob guru Naoko "Nicky" Lawnsby
Cost: $20 per person / $35 per couple
Learn all about breastfeeding from Honolulu's boob guru Nicky Lawnsby!
In this class, you will gain important knowledge to help mothers successfully feed their baby nature's way:
* The basics of breastfeeding your newborn: latching, positioning, and breastfeeding cues
* The basic anatomy and physiology of breastfeeding
* The myths of breastfeeding
* What to expect in the hospital and at home
* How to prepare for returning to work
Partners are strongly encouraged to attend.
Nicky is Baby Awearness's full-time, in-store lactation consultant who specializes in the very effective technique of traditional Japanese lactation massage. Nicky is also an IBCLC certified Lactation Consultant and has over 20 years of experience in midwifery, breastfeeding, and women's health.
To reserve a spot at the lecture, please contact 988-0010 or lani@babyawearness.com Preference will be given to those with due date in 2010. Maximum attendance is 10 people. Waitlist will be available on a first-come basis.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
If you cannot make the lecture and need help with breastfeeding, Nicky is available for personal, one-on-one consultations. Please contact Lani Lee at 988-0010 to schedule an appointment.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Mother-to-Mother Support for Breastfeeding Moms
LLL holds monthly meetings open to any woman interested in breastfeeding. At the meetings, you’ll find new moms, experienced moms, moms of twins, military moms, working moms and moms-to-be. Any questions are welcome and leaders have current and accurate information to help you, along with plenty of wisdom and support from the group if you need it. Babies are always welcome at meetings and you don’t have to become a member or sign up ahead of time.
More about LLL:
La Leche League was founded by seven breastfeeding mothers in 1956. These mothers noticed many other moms saying to them, “I tried to breastfeed, but I couldn’t…” and they decided to get together and invite pregnant friends and new moms to exchange information and support for breastfeeding. The organization grew quickly and today, La Leche League International has over 3,000 groups in 68 countries around the world. www.llli.org
To find information on leaders and groups in Hawaii, visit our website.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
HPL #2: Breastfeeding Lecture
Baby Awearness' Healthy Pregnancy Lecture Series presents
Introduction to Breastfeeding for Pregnant Moms
Taught by: Naoko "Nicky" Lawnsby
Sunday, August 15th, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
RSVP required to lani@babyawearness.com or 988-0010
Learn all about breastfeeding from Honolulu's boob guru Nicky Lawnsby.
In this class, you will gain important knowledge to help mothers successfully feed their baby nature's way:
* The basics of breastfeeding your newborn: latching, positioning, and breastfeeding cues
* The basic anatomy and physiology of breastfeeding
* The myths of breastfeeding
* What to expect in the hospital and at home
* How to prepare for returning to work.
Partners are strongly encouraged to attend.
Nicky is Baby Awearness's full-time, in-store lactation consultant who specializes in the very effective technique of traditional Japanese lactation massage. Nicky is also an IBCLC certified Lactation Consultant and has over 20 years of experience in midwifery, breastfeeding, and women's health.
To reserve a spot at the lecture, please call the store at 988-0010 or e-mail lani@babyawearness.com
Introduction to Breastfeeding for Pregnant Moms
Taught by: Naoko "Nicky" Lawnsby
Sunday, August 15th, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
RSVP required to lani@babyawearness.com or 988-0010
Learn all about breastfeeding from Honolulu's boob guru Nicky Lawnsby.
* The basics of breastfeeding your newborn: latching, positioning, and breastfeeding cues
* The basic anatomy and physiology of breastfeeding
* The myths of breastfeeding
* What to expect in the hospital and at home
* How to prepare for returning to work.
Partners are strongly encouraged to attend.
Nicky is Baby Awearness's full-time, in-store lactation consultant who specializes in the very effective technique of traditional Japanese lactation massage. Nicky is also an IBCLC certified Lactation Consultant and has over 20 years of experience in midwifery, breastfeeding, and women's health.
To reserve a spot at the lecture, please call the store at 988-0010 or e-mail lani@babyawearness.com
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Changes to Contraceptive Use Guidelines Could Compromise Breastfeeding
Last Month the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released new birth control guidelines, which could undermine mothers who want to breastfeed. By sanctioning the use of progesterone injections, progestin-only pills, as well as combined (progestin-estrogen) oral contraceptives within the first month after giving birth, nursing women may encounter adverse effect to their breastfeeding experience.
"The new guidelines ignore basic facts about how breastfeeding works," says Dr. Gerald Calnen, President of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM). "Mothers start making milk due to the natural fall in progesterone after birth. An injection of artificial progesterone could completely derail this process."
The CDC report, "U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use, 2010," released in the May 28 issue of Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), contains important changes in what constitutes acceptable contraceptive use by breastfeeding women. The criteria advise that by one-month postpartum the benefits of progesterone contraception (in the form of progestin-only pills, depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DPMA) injection, or implants), as well as the use of combined (progestin-estrogen) oral contraceptives outweigh the risk of reducing breastfeeding rates. Previously, progesterone birth control was not recommended for nursing mothers until at least six weeks after giving birth, and combined hormonal methods were not recommended before six months.
Based on clinical experience, breastfeeding support providers report a negative impact on breastfeeding when contraceptive methods are introduced too early. One preliminary study demonstrated dramatically lower breastfeeding rates at the six-month mark among mothers who underwent early insertion of progesterone-containing IUDs, compared with breastfeeding rates of mothers who underwent insertion at six to eight weeks postpartum.
"The data are limited," says Calnen, "but for now, the state of the science suggests that early progesterone exposure undermines breastfeeding."
Family planning specialists argue that early hormonal birth control is needed to reduce unplanned pregnancies. However, the most commonly used early contraceptive method, a DPMA injection, prevents pregnancy for only 12 weeks at a time. "There is no evidence that immediate postpartum injections delay the next pregnancy beyond the first three months," says Calnen.
Dr. Miriam Labbok, Director of the Carolina Global Breastfeeding Institute and an expert on the interface between breastfeeding and fertility, notes, "The mother should have the final decision on her birth control method, with full information. Unfortunately, these methods are often given to women with little counseling. Women deserve to know that there is a potential risk."
ABM wrote to CDC Director Thomas Frieden in January urging reconsideration of the guidelines. In his reply, Dr. Frieden described the new recommendations as "the best interpretation of the existing evidence."
Calnen is less confident. "Physicians and mothers should proceed with caution," he says. "There are plenty of birth control methods that are proven to be safe for breastfeeding. Early progesterone is not one of them."
More information can be obtained through the Academy of breastfeeding Medicine. The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine is a global organization of physicians dedicated to the promotion, protection and support of breastfeeding and human lactation through education, research, and advocacy. An independent, self-sustaining, international physician organization and the only organization of its kind, ABM's mission is to unite members of various medical specialties through physician education, expansion of knowledge in breastfeeding science and human lactation, facilitation of optimal breastfeeding practices, and encouragement of the exchange of information among organizations. It promotes the development and dissemination of clinical practice guidelines. The Academy has prepared clinical protocols for the care of breastfeeding mothers and infants that are available on the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's (AHRQ) National Guideline Clearinghouse website. (NL)
"The new guidelines ignore basic facts about how breastfeeding works," says Dr. Gerald Calnen, President of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM). "Mothers start making milk due to the natural fall in progesterone after birth. An injection of artificial progesterone could completely derail this process."
The CDC report, "U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use, 2010," released in the May 28 issue of Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), contains important changes in what constitutes acceptable contraceptive use by breastfeeding women. The criteria advise that by one-month postpartum the benefits of progesterone contraception (in the form of progestin-only pills, depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DPMA) injection, or implants), as well as the use of combined (progestin-estrogen) oral contraceptives outweigh the risk of reducing breastfeeding rates. Previously, progesterone birth control was not recommended for nursing mothers until at least six weeks after giving birth, and combined hormonal methods were not recommended before six months.
Based on clinical experience, breastfeeding support providers report a negative impact on breastfeeding when contraceptive methods are introduced too early. One preliminary study demonstrated dramatically lower breastfeeding rates at the six-month mark among mothers who underwent early insertion of progesterone-containing IUDs, compared with breastfeeding rates of mothers who underwent insertion at six to eight weeks postpartum.
"The data are limited," says Calnen, "but for now, the state of the science suggests that early progesterone exposure undermines breastfeeding."
Family planning specialists argue that early hormonal birth control is needed to reduce unplanned pregnancies. However, the most commonly used early contraceptive method, a DPMA injection, prevents pregnancy for only 12 weeks at a time. "There is no evidence that immediate postpartum injections delay the next pregnancy beyond the first three months," says Calnen.
Dr. Miriam Labbok, Director of the Carolina Global Breastfeeding Institute and an expert on the interface between breastfeeding and fertility, notes, "The mother should have the final decision on her birth control method, with full information. Unfortunately, these methods are often given to women with little counseling. Women deserve to know that there is a potential risk."
ABM wrote to CDC Director Thomas Frieden in January urging reconsideration of the guidelines. In his reply, Dr. Frieden described the new recommendations as "the best interpretation of the existing evidence."
Calnen is less confident. "Physicians and mothers should proceed with caution," he says. "There are plenty of birth control methods that are proven to be safe for breastfeeding. Early progesterone is not one of them."
More information can be obtained through the Academy of breastfeeding Medicine. The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine is a global organization of physicians dedicated to the promotion, protection and support of breastfeeding and human lactation through education, research, and advocacy. An independent, self-sustaining, international physician organization and the only organization of its kind, ABM's mission is to unite members of various medical specialties through physician education, expansion of knowledge in breastfeeding science and human lactation, facilitation of optimal breastfeeding practices, and encouragement of the exchange of information among organizations. It promotes the development and dissemination of clinical practice guidelines. The Academy has prepared clinical protocols for the care of breastfeeding mothers and infants that are available on the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's (AHRQ) National Guideline Clearinghouse website. (NL)
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Fathers, Dads, Papas: The Unsung Heroes of Breastfeeding
The month of June is to celebrate fathers
Bringing home a new baby can be both a very challenging and happy occasion. Bringing up a child is one of the most important tasks in a person's life. When there is a combined effort to parent between two partners the effort becomes almost effortless. A father's breastfeeding support in the first few days after arriving home can be a positive beginning in a family's journey together.
One of the most popular questions asked by new moms and dads with the IBCLC (Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant) is "when can Dad feed the baby, I want him to feel involved." Feeding, while an important activity, is only one of many ways in which a father can be present in his baby's life. Newborns need to be held, comforted, changed, burped, bathed, spoken to, and loved. Holding a newborn skin-to-skin is a gift that any dad can give his child. Studies show that skin-to-skin contact given by anyone caring for a newborn will make the baby feel more secure, provide warmth, even stabilize heart and respiratory rate. Skin-to-skin also, of course, helps breastfeeding go well. Amazing that such a simple act of holding baby close can help a newborn transition to life outside the womb.
Knowledge is power. When Dad is well versed in the demands and physical and emotional impact breastfeeding has on the family, he is better equipped to be supportive. Attending breastfeeding classes and reading books on breastfeeding will help Dad assist with positioning and other aspects of breastfeeding. Asking questions when mom is with the IBCLC, and helping to deflect visitors with unhelpful advice while in the hospital and at home, will also help the mother's efforts. Dad's participation in the first few weeks of breastfeeding in all these ways will help mom and baby get off to a good start with feedings. We should praises all fathers who are supportive of their breastfeeding partners. One of the best things a father can do for his child is to love Mom. (NL)
Happy Fathers Day!!
Bringing home a new baby can be both a very challenging and happy occasion. Bringing up a child is one of the most important tasks in a person's life. When there is a combined effort to parent between two partners the effort becomes almost effortless. A father's breastfeeding support in the first few days after arriving home can be a positive beginning in a family's journey together.
One of the most popular questions asked by new moms and dads with the IBCLC (Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant) is "when can Dad feed the baby, I want him to feel involved." Feeding, while an important activity, is only one of many ways in which a father can be present in his baby's life. Newborns need to be held, comforted, changed, burped, bathed, spoken to, and loved. Holding a newborn skin-to-skin is a gift that any dad can give his child. Studies show that skin-to-skin contact given by anyone caring for a newborn will make the baby feel more secure, provide warmth, even stabilize heart and respiratory rate. Skin-to-skin also, of course, helps breastfeeding go well. Amazing that such a simple act of holding baby close can help a newborn transition to life outside the womb.
Knowledge is power. When Dad is well versed in the demands and physical and emotional impact breastfeeding has on the family, he is better equipped to be supportive. Attending breastfeeding classes and reading books on breastfeeding will help Dad assist with positioning and other aspects of breastfeeding. Asking questions when mom is with the IBCLC, and helping to deflect visitors with unhelpful advice while in the hospital and at home, will also help the mother's efforts. Dad's participation in the first few weeks of breastfeeding in all these ways will help mom and baby get off to a good start with feedings. We should praises all fathers who are supportive of their breastfeeding partners. One of the best things a father can do for his child is to love Mom. (NL)
Happy Fathers Day!!
Friday, June 4, 2010
Beautiful Nursing Bras
Our favorite maternity boutique, Hot Mama Maternity, is now carrying a selection of the most feminine, gorgeous nursing bras by Amoralia.
Second skin lavender print *best seller*A brilliant, practical nursing bra in supportive microfibre so comfortable you won’t even feel you're wearing it. The cross-over design means that the bra is plunging at the front but still very supportive.
Amalfi
A lovely everyday cotton nursing bra with pretty lace detail on the neckline and straps.
Embrace with magnetic straps
A great everyday nursing bra in a cool microfibre fabric. This bra features unique patented magnetic clips that make breastfeeding a doodle (just snap and click). Each clip can support a 2kg weight and feels totally secure.
About Amoralia
Amoralia is the brainchild of Jules Fossett. An ex-advertising strategist, she was struck and bewildered by the obvious gap in the market that lacked beautiful maternity lingerie. Spurred on by the pleas from her pregnant sisters, colleagues, and friends, the idea of stylizing nursing and maternity wear took hold and Amoralia became a reality.
"I'll be honest -- I have never been pregnant. So it may seem surprising that I set up a company dedicated to making the most beautiful maternity underwear on the market. I do know, however -- like you -- that luxury lingerie is one of those things that can instantly make us feel more feminine and sparkling. Why would pregnant women not feel the same?"
Our designer, formerly at some of the UK's hottest designer brands has just had a little girl and has therefore designed a range that is not only glamorous but supportive, practical and seriously comfortable too.
After researching, testing and tweaking, speaking to experienced midwives and dozens of pregnant and breastfeeding women, the Amoralia design team solved recurring issues that came up with nursing moms: invisible nursing clips, pretty straps, breast pad holders, briefs cut to flatter larger bottoms. Elegance, innovation and empathy are at the heart of the brand. Amoralia donates a percentage of their profits to Tommy’s, a charity that aims to end the heartache caused by premature birth, miscarriage and stillbirth."
Second skin lavender print *best seller*A brilliant, practical nursing bra in supportive microfibre so comfortable you won’t even feel you're wearing it. The cross-over design means that the bra is plunging at the front but still very supportive.
Amalfi
A lovely everyday cotton nursing bra with pretty lace detail on the neckline and straps.
Embrace with magnetic straps
A great everyday nursing bra in a cool microfibre fabric. This bra features unique patented magnetic clips that make breastfeeding a doodle (just snap and click). Each clip can support a 2kg weight and feels totally secure.
About Amoralia
Amoralia is the brainchild of Jules Fossett. An ex-advertising strategist, she was struck and bewildered by the obvious gap in the market that lacked beautiful maternity lingerie. Spurred on by the pleas from her pregnant sisters, colleagues, and friends, the idea of stylizing nursing and maternity wear took hold and Amoralia became a reality.
"I'll be honest -- I have never been pregnant. So it may seem surprising that I set up a company dedicated to making the most beautiful maternity underwear on the market. I do know, however -- like you -- that luxury lingerie is one of those things that can instantly make us feel more feminine and sparkling. Why would pregnant women not feel the same?"
Our designer, formerly at some of the UK's hottest designer brands has just had a little girl and has therefore designed a range that is not only glamorous but supportive, practical and seriously comfortable too.
After researching, testing and tweaking, speaking to experienced midwives and dozens of pregnant and breastfeeding women, the Amoralia design team solved recurring issues that came up with nursing moms: invisible nursing clips, pretty straps, breast pad holders, briefs cut to flatter larger bottoms. Elegance, innovation and empathy are at the heart of the brand. Amoralia donates a percentage of their profits to Tommy’s, a charity that aims to end the heartache caused by premature birth, miscarriage and stillbirth."
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
National Woman's Health Week
Did you know that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in celebrating National Woman's Health Week? The week of May 9th to 15th was dedicated to empowering women to make their health a top priority. In honor of this, I would like to remind women that breastfeeding is a health preventative behavior that reaps benefits for a lifetime. Avoiding or abandoning breastfeeding increases a woman's risk of developing premenopausal breast cancer, ovarian cancer, type II diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), hyperlipidemia, and cardiovascular disease.
The decision to breastfeed greatly promotes good public health behavior that benefits not only infants but also their mothers. During National Women's Health Week, communities, businesses, government, health organizations, and other groups work together to educate women about steps they can take to improve their physical and mental health as well as lower their risks of certain diseases. Women are often the caregivers for their spouses, children, and even their own elderly parents that they forget to focus on their own health. But research shows that when women take care of themselves, the health of their family improves.
Healthcare providers are urged to remind the childbearing population of women that they work with of the importance of breastfeeding as a method of reducing diseases and conditions that can rob them and their family of a healthy mother. Heart disease, for instance, is the number one killer of women in the U.S. Epidemiological data suggests that women who do not breastfeed or wean too early face a higher risk of disease and early death.
We should celebrate National Woman's Health week by wishing all moms a Happy and Healthy Mother's Day, every day.
The decision to breastfeed greatly promotes good public health behavior that benefits not only infants but also their mothers. During National Women's Health Week, communities, businesses, government, health organizations, and other groups work together to educate women about steps they can take to improve their physical and mental health as well as lower their risks of certain diseases. Women are often the caregivers for their spouses, children, and even their own elderly parents that they forget to focus on their own health. But research shows that when women take care of themselves, the health of their family improves.
Healthcare providers are urged to remind the childbearing population of women that they work with of the importance of breastfeeding as a method of reducing diseases and conditions that can rob them and their family of a healthy mother. Heart disease, for instance, is the number one killer of women in the U.S. Epidemiological data suggests that women who do not breastfeed or wean too early face a higher risk of disease and early death.
We should celebrate National Woman's Health week by wishing all moms a Happy and Healthy Mother's Day, every day.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Healthcare Reform Includes Support for Employed Breastfeeding Mothers
The passage of the workplace breastfeeding support provision in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (also known as healthcare reform) states that employers shall provide reasonable, unpaid break time and a private, non-bathroom place for an employee to express breast milk for her nursing child for up to one year after the child’s birth. Employers with less than 50 employees are not subject to the requirement if it would cause “undue hardship”
Returning to work is one of the major reasons for the avoidance or abandonment of breastfeeding. It is an important public issue: just as breastfeeding is beneficial for babies, so too is supporting breastfeeding beneficial for business. Research clearly demonstrates the value of breastfeeding for the health of women and children as well as an employer’s bottom line. Medical experts and Federal health agencies agree that exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months with continued breastfeeding for the first year of life and beyond sets the stage for optimal maternal and child health outcome. However, returning to work can be a major hurdle for new mothers struggling to balance working and breastfeeding without the simple support measures this law ensures in place.
Although many are aware of the health benefits of breastfeeding, employers may not recognize the economic benefits that accrue to them also. The Business Case for Breastfeeding, published in 2008 by the Department of Health and Human Services, demonstrates an impressive return investment for employers who provide workplace lactation support, which include lower health costs, reduced absenteeism, and lesser turnover rates. Employees whose companies provide breastfeeding support consistently report improved morale, better satisfaction with their jobs, and higher productivity.
It takes little for a company to provide lactation support. Basic needs include a clean place to express milk in privacy and break time to express milk approximately every 3 hours during the work period. A model law in Oregon defines reasonable time for milk expression as 30 minutes for every 4 hours worked. A growing number of companies across the U.S. offer worksite lactation programs that also include access to information and professional support from a lactation consultant or other health experts.
Currently, 24 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia have legislation related to breastfeeding in the workplace. The new federal provision will provide a minimum level of support in all states, but it will not preempt a State law that provides stronger protections.
Although the law is effective immediately upon president Obama’s signing of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the U.S. Department of Labor must now work to define terms and enforcement procedures.
Employers, human resources managers, and breastfeeding employees who are interested in helping to establish worksite lactation programs at their place of employment can find more information from U.S. Breastfeeding Committee website, and to obtain The Business Case for Breastfeeding resources, visit The National Women’s Health Informational Center. (NL)
Returning to work is one of the major reasons for the avoidance or abandonment of breastfeeding. It is an important public issue: just as breastfeeding is beneficial for babies, so too is supporting breastfeeding beneficial for business. Research clearly demonstrates the value of breastfeeding for the health of women and children as well as an employer’s bottom line. Medical experts and Federal health agencies agree that exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months with continued breastfeeding for the first year of life and beyond sets the stage for optimal maternal and child health outcome. However, returning to work can be a major hurdle for new mothers struggling to balance working and breastfeeding without the simple support measures this law ensures in place.
Although many are aware of the health benefits of breastfeeding, employers may not recognize the economic benefits that accrue to them also. The Business Case for Breastfeeding, published in 2008 by the Department of Health and Human Services, demonstrates an impressive return investment for employers who provide workplace lactation support, which include lower health costs, reduced absenteeism, and lesser turnover rates. Employees whose companies provide breastfeeding support consistently report improved morale, better satisfaction with their jobs, and higher productivity.
It takes little for a company to provide lactation support. Basic needs include a clean place to express milk in privacy and break time to express milk approximately every 3 hours during the work period. A model law in Oregon defines reasonable time for milk expression as 30 minutes for every 4 hours worked. A growing number of companies across the U.S. offer worksite lactation programs that also include access to information and professional support from a lactation consultant or other health experts.
Currently, 24 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia have legislation related to breastfeeding in the workplace. The new federal provision will provide a minimum level of support in all states, but it will not preempt a State law that provides stronger protections.
Although the law is effective immediately upon president Obama’s signing of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the U.S. Department of Labor must now work to define terms and enforcement procedures.
Employers, human resources managers, and breastfeeding employees who are interested in helping to establish worksite lactation programs at their place of employment can find more information from U.S. Breastfeeding Committee website, and to obtain The Business Case for Breastfeeding resources, visit The National Women’s Health Informational Center. (NL)
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Informed and Empowered Motherhood
Today I remembered why I bought Baby aWEARness all over again. A mom with a 2 week-old called the store inquiring about our lactation consultant Nicky. She was having massive problems breastfeeding and had turned to formula. That led to major engorgement, and as we soon discovered, borderline mastitis. She was in severe pain, emotionally and physically.
When she came for her consultation, the store was filled with mothers who could immediately sense and empathize with her situation. It turned into an impromptu support group, with all of us talking story, sharing our trials and tribulations as mothers. I can honestly say that when this mother left the store she felt informed and empowered to go back home and continue breastfeeding. She knew what she had in store for her, she knew it was going to be painful and hard, but most of all she knew she could do it.
It was a beautiful beautiful thing.
When she came for her consultation, the store was filled with mothers who could immediately sense and empathize with her situation. It turned into an impromptu support group, with all of us talking story, sharing our trials and tribulations as mothers. I can honestly say that when this mother left the store she felt informed and empowered to go back home and continue breastfeeding. She knew what she had in store for her, she knew it was going to be painful and hard, but most of all she knew she could do it.
It was a beautiful beautiful thing.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Prevention of Obesity in Breastfeeding Mothers and their Babies
The United States Lactation Consultant Association (USLCA) recognizes that obesity is a common problem in the United States for both women and children.
One of the easiest and most healthy ways to prevent obesity is to breastfeed and to be breastfed. In the United States 32.7% of U.S. adults 20 years and older are overweight, 34.3% are obese and 5.9% are extremely obese. The American Obesity Association states that 15.5% of adolescents, ages 12 to 19, and 15.3% of children, ages 6 to 11, are obese.These alarming statistics also drive up health care costs by $100 billion a year!!
Since 1960, the rate of obese Americans has been on the rise. Children who are obese at a young age are at risk for diabetes, heart disease, metabolic disorders, depression and other diseases which will impact the rest of their lives. It is estimated that the increase of obesity in this country has also attributed to the death rate in our country. Each year in the U.S obesity causes at least 300,000 unnecessary deaths. The states with the lowest rates of breastfeeding generally demonstrate the highest rates of overweight and obesity.
Breastfeeding an infant through the first year can decrease childhood obesity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have reported that "for each month of exclusive breastfeeding, up to age 9 months, the risk of obesity is decreased by 4%." By breastfeeding a child for 9 months or more there is a 30% less chance of a child being an overweight adult. Lactation has also been associated with postpartum weight loss in the exclusively breastfeeding mother.
Not only do breastfed infants reduce their likelihood of childhood obesity, they are taught and learn from an early age what the most nutritious foods are and how to make healthy choices. These healthy choices can potentially impact an adult's health and can avoid the many diseases obesity can cause.
USLCA president, Laurie Beck states, “Educating parents on the optimal nutrition breast milk provides is important for healthy families and can decrease the rate of childhood obesity in this country.”
So let us continue and encourage to support breastfeeding as an early preventive health behavior in the efforts to educate women on the prevention of obesity.
One of the easiest and most healthy ways to prevent obesity is to breastfeed and to be breastfed. In the United States 32.7% of U.S. adults 20 years and older are overweight, 34.3% are obese and 5.9% are extremely obese. The American Obesity Association states that 15.5% of adolescents, ages 12 to 19, and 15.3% of children, ages 6 to 11, are obese.These alarming statistics also drive up health care costs by $100 billion a year!!
Since 1960, the rate of obese Americans has been on the rise. Children who are obese at a young age are at risk for diabetes, heart disease, metabolic disorders, depression and other diseases which will impact the rest of their lives. It is estimated that the increase of obesity in this country has also attributed to the death rate in our country. Each year in the U.S obesity causes at least 300,000 unnecessary deaths. The states with the lowest rates of breastfeeding generally demonstrate the highest rates of overweight and obesity.
Breastfeeding an infant through the first year can decrease childhood obesity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have reported that "for each month of exclusive breastfeeding, up to age 9 months, the risk of obesity is decreased by 4%." By breastfeeding a child for 9 months or more there is a 30% less chance of a child being an overweight adult. Lactation has also been associated with postpartum weight loss in the exclusively breastfeeding mother.
Not only do breastfed infants reduce their likelihood of childhood obesity, they are taught and learn from an early age what the most nutritious foods are and how to make healthy choices. These healthy choices can potentially impact an adult's health and can avoid the many diseases obesity can cause.
USLCA president, Laurie Beck states, “Educating parents on the optimal nutrition breast milk provides is important for healthy families and can decrease the rate of childhood obesity in this country.”
So let us continue and encourage to support breastfeeding as an early preventive health behavior in the efforts to educate women on the prevention of obesity.
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