Before you give birth, think about whether or not you plan to breastfeed your baby. While PinnacleHealth encourages new mothers to try breastfeeding, the decision is yours to make.  No matter whether you decide to breast or bottle feed, you’ll find the support and resources you need to give your baby the healthiest possible start.

Breast and Bottle Feeding Support

To help you choose what will work for you and your baby, PinnacleHealth offers resources to educate and inform about breast and bottle-feeding. The PinnacleHealth’s lactation center is staffed by registered nurses, all of whom are board-certified lactation consultants. The consultants teach breastfeeding classes, offer guidance to moms having trouble with breastfeeding, and assist women returning to work who wish to continue breastfeeding.

One-on-one counseling and assistance is also available by appointment or by phone after discharge. A variety of breastfeeding aids, including rental of breast pumps, are also available.

To speak with one of our lactation consultants call (717) 782-5372.

Benefits of Breastfeeding

While PinnacleHealth will support women no matter how they choose to feed their babies, all new mothers should know the benefits of breastfeeding. Not only is breast milk easier for baby to digest, but it also provides protection against gastrointestinal and ear infections. Studies also indicate that breastfed babies also have a:

• Reduced incidence of childhood lymphoma
• Reduced incidence of childhood onset diabetes
• Reduced incidence of Crohn’s Disease
• Reduced incidence of allergies

Breastfeeding also has benefits for the mother. It reduces blood loss after birth and helps the uterus return to its normal size.  Breastfeeding produces hormones that help keep mother calm, decrease risk of osteoporosis and help protect against ovarian and breast cancer.