Breastfeeding has physical, mental, emotional, economic, and environmental benefits that lead to happier and healthier babies, mothers, families, and communities.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
Here are just a few of the many benefits breastfeeding provides:
- Bonding Time
Breastfeeding brings both an emotional and physical closeness for mother and child. The baby develops an attachment for its mother while breastfeeding, which often translates into feelings of protection and love. The attachment and bond established while breastfeeding will continue to grow as the baby ages. - Better Health Outcomes for Baby
Breastmilk provides infants with balanced and nutritious meals, giving babies everything they need to grow, including white blood cells, antibodies, and other substances that help boost babies’ immune systems. Research suggests that breastfeeding decreases the risks of some diseases, allergies, and health conditions including asthma, obesity, and type 2 diabetes in children. Some studies show that, compared to children who are not breastfed, a baby’s brain and cognitive development improves when they are breastfed. - Mom’s Mental, Emotional, and Physical Well-Being
Two primary hormones release as a woman breastfeeds her baby: prolactin and oxytocin. When prolactin releases, it creates a peaceful, nurturing sensation so mom can be calm and concentrate on her child. When a woman’s body releases oxytocin, she can feel a stronger attachment and bond with her baby. Breastfeeding can improve a woman’s physical well-being as well. Studies suggest that breastfeeding helps a woman recover from childbirth faster and decreases the risk of developing certain diseases, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and high blood pressure. - Economic Security
While breastfeeding takes a lot of time and patience, it can save families thousands of dollars. The money spent purchasing expensive formula, extra bottles, and other accessories adds up fast. These purchases can significantly affect a family budget over time. - Environmental Stress
Even though it might seem convenient to give a baby formula, it puts a lot of stress on the environment. Just consider the materials used to manufacture, package, and sell the formula. Breastfeeding alleviates the need to utilize many of these extra resources and prevents additional waste from piling up in landfills.
Despite all the obvious benefits of breastfeeding, some women feel overwhelmed or confused about breastfeeding. In the face of these feelings and some of the unique challenges breastfeeding can present, many need assistance or support to breastfeed their child.
Attend San Ramon Regional Medical Center’s Breastfeeding for Beginners Class
To offer support to pregnant women and new mothers who want to learn more about breastfeeding, the San Ramon Regional Medical Center offers a Breastfeeding for Beginners class.
The Breastfeeding for Beginners class is taught by an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). As a professional certified in the clinical management of breastfeeding, an IBCLC holds current knowledge about complex lactation issues and supports mothers with evidenced-based lactation practices. IBCLCs help mothers navigate difficulties with breastfeeding in order to create a sustainable breastfeeding routine.
Breastfeeding for Beginners will cover:
- Preparation
- Facts and Myths
- Practical Reasons to Breastfeed
- Demonstration of Correct Positioning
- Common Problems and Solutions
- Normal Infant Feeding Behaviors
- Breastfeeding Pain
- Role of Support Person(s)
- Breast Pumps
Breastfeeding for Beginners is a one-time class and is offered once per month. The following are class dates for the remainder of 2017:
- Tuesday, July 18
- Tuesday, August 15
- Tuesday, September 19
- Tuesday, October 17
- Tuesday, November 21
- Tuesday, December 19
The cost of the class is $40, and classes are held at the San Ramon Regional Medical Center located at 6001 Norris Canyon Road in San Ramon. Registration is required to attend the class. Contact the San Ramon Regional Medical Center at 855-780-4263 or register for the class online to reserve your spot.
Canopy Health Affiliates Offer a Variety of Health and Wellness Courses
Canopy Health’s affiliate hospitals and care centers offer a variety of health and wellness courses in the Bay Area to encourage a preventive and proactive approach to healthcare. In addition to breastfeeding support classes, Canopy Health offers courses to help patients with their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Whether the class is to help patients manage a chronic illness or prepare for a medical procedure like a joint replacement, we want to give patients tools for better health outcomes, regardless of their health status.
As a caregiver practicing with the Canopy Health alliance, we encourage you and your colleagues to inform patients about the outstanding health and wellness classes offered by all our affiliates.
