1511cf66_all_To_Action_on_Breastfeeding__Topic
[ID] 900 [Interest Areas] Concerned Citizen Public Health Worker [Comment] I feel it would benefit the mother & baby's health if all OB would put the baby to the breast as part of the delivery process, much like suctioning them. It would help control blood loss in mom and boost the baby's immune system. Mom's could still decide not to continue breastfeeding, but this would be a health benefit the baby would get before formula is introduced. Many of our health care workers aren't aware of the benefits of breastfeeding and don't support it as the first (only if no contraindications) feeding choice and educatoin in that area would help. At prenatal visits and yearly physicals the benefits of breastfeeding and know how should be given to women. Example of supporting could be by telling an early prenatal that her breast are tender because they are preparing for feeding her baby and 2nd trimester visit telling them colostrum is there waiting even if they don't see it, etc. Always something about positive about it. Even if a mom has a risk for low supply encourage her to breastfeed, but refer her to the lactation consultant at the hospital when baby is born. The diaper bags given out at hospitals should have to all support breastfeeding and in place of formula put a good quality manual breast pump in them and breast pads. Take out formula samples, but leave compaines option of mail in coupons that moms could send in for formula sample if they want them AND leave it up to moms to find the coupon on their own and mail it in. (it isn't supportive of breastfeeding if hospital staff encourage moms to fill it out). Too many doctors tell mom's it is ok to change to formula without telling them what health benefits they are giving up. And many mom's say that doctors aren't supportive of breastfeeding past the six months and will even ask them why they are still breastfeeding. This is why I think educating health care workers is important. Before we can help a mom breastfeed she has to want to. Understanding the health benefits of human milk and believing it (doctor's actions even before pregnancy)may help more women consider it. When teaching or doing a breast exam teach on one breast and have mom do the other while observing. This will give women confidence that they are doing it correct and help them remember how to do it while at the same time get them used to their breast which could impact feelings toward breastfeeding. Women need to take back their breast. [Topic] 
Maternal and Infant Care Practices: Prenatal, Hospital, and Post-Delivery Care
Call To Action on Breastfeeding
Topic