Breastfeeding has multiple benefits for both baby and mom as it provides the perfect nutrition that promotes growth, development and a healthy immune system.
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for at least 6 months and continued breastfeeding for at least one year as new foods are introduced to your baby’s diet. Breast milk provides the ideal nutrition for your baby and has everything needed for the first six months of life.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
- Provides important antibodies that help fight off viruses and bacteria and may reduce the risk of ear infections, respiratory infections and other illnesses
- May aid in protecting baby against allergies and eczema
- Causes less stomach upset, diarrhea and constipation than formula
- Decreases childhood obesity rates
- Promotes important skin-to-skin time with baby for bonding and growth
- Decreases mom’s risk of breast and ovarian cancer
- Burns calories that may help mom lose pregnancy weight
There are very few circumstances in which breastfeeding your baby would not be advised and other options should be considered. We encourage you to discuss any health issues or concerns with your healthcare provider or lactation consultant
Breastfeeding Support
We are committed to providing breastfeeding education and support to new, expectant and experienced moms. Our team of Lactation Specialists are available to offer breastfeeding support while you are in the hospital. It is our shared goal to help you meet your breastfeeding goals.
Help is available for:
- Latching positioning
- Milk supply questions
- Guidance with breastmilk pumping
- Prenatal counseling/education
- Advisement of medication safety during breastfeeding
Amy Blue, RN, IBCLC
Berkeley Medical Center
2500 Hospital Drive
Martinsburg, WV 25401
304-264-1000 ext 37006
Rita Harris, RN BSN CLC
Berkeley Medical Center
2500 Hospital Drive
Martinsburg, WV 25401
304-264-1000 ext 61241
Pam Longmore, PNP, IBCLC
2000 Professional Court
Martinsburg, WV 25401
304-263-8853