Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding

To make the most informed choice about this important decision, we encourage you to attend a breastfeeding class during your pregnancy and talk to your doctor about choosing to breastfeed.

What breastfeeding is really like

First, be assured that your breasts will be ready. Throughout your pregnancy, changes occurred that prepared them to produce an adequate supply of milk. Babies who are born at term, after 37 weeks, are also ready. They have practiced sucking on their fingers and fists and have swallowed amniotic fluid before birth.

But it's not as easy as it looks. In the beginning, you and your baby will have to work together to learn how to breastfeed.

Your nurse and/or lactation education counselor can provide individual assistance while you are in the hospital. A lactation education counselor will answer your questions and provide the information, assistance, and reassurance you need.

What about the health benefits and satisfaction of giving your baby the best? Learn about the benefits of breastfeeding.