Breastfeeding your baby
Experts agree that breastmilk is best for babies and their mothers, providing
many health, immunity, environmental and convenience benefits. The longer
and more exclusively a baby breastfeeds, the greater the rewards. The
American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding, starting
as soon as possible after delivery for at least 6 months and ideally continuing
for at least one year. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive
breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding
with appropriate complementary foods for up to 2 years or beyond.
Breastfeeding Support
We want to support you in making an educated decision about breastfeeding.
Every woman who delivers at MCMC will be offered lactation care, and the
nurses in Labor and Delivery are all trained to help you make those first
days count. Because hospital stays are so brief, you and your baby will
have the opportunity to return a few days after discharge for a postpartum
clinic. This is a great time to ask questions and get extra help with
breastfeeding, if needed.
Lactation Consultants
You can request a lactation consult any time from pregnancy to weaning.
We currently have lactation consultant appointments available by appointment
on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. You can call to schedule any time by
calling MCMC Labor and Delivery at 541-296-7210.
We will do our best to help you relax and enjoy the experience, even if
you have challenges. While nursing your baby is normal and natural, it
does require some learning for both mom and baby. Some babies are enthusiastic
from the moment they are born. Others are sleepy and seem disinterested
for a while.
Some women choose not to nurse baby at breast but would like baby to have
the benefits of her breastmilk. We are here to support you in meeting
your goals, whatever they are, as you grow your family.
We are here for you.
Things can start out easy, concerns or questions can arise long after you’ve
gone home with your baby. We are still here for you. Anytime you need
some help, information, or reassurance about your feeding journey, call
MCMC Labor and Delivery at 541-296-7210.