Ascension Via Christi St. Joseph

The Ascension Via Christi Breastfeeding Clinic opened in June 2008 to provide advice and encouragement, and help with a variety of challenges for breastfeeding mothers, including breast engorgement, low milk supply, preparing to return to work, babies who have difficulty latching on, are jaundiced or have weight gain issues. This walk-in clinic is open 10 am-2 pm Monday through Friday and is staffed by register nurses, board certified lactation consultants who help mothers with questions and concerns about breast feeding, and assess infants to ensure they are gaining weight appropriately. Medical issues are referred for physician follow-up. We offer classes before your baby is born, a visit from a registered nurse, certified lactation consultant during your stay and follow-up support after the two of you go home. Deciding to breastfeed is one of the best choices you can make for you and your baby. Breast milk is the perfect food for you and your baby. The Academy of Pediatrics, Surgeon General and World Health organization, among others recommends all babies receive exclusive breast milk for the first 6 months of life and then continue at least one year with additional food. After the first year, breastfeeding can continue as long as a mom and baby desire. Ascension Via Christi NewLife Center has developed an extensive breastfeeding support program, and we are committed to the Ten Steps to Healthy Breastfeeding, established by the World Health Organization and Unicef. The benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and child are staggering. The NewLife Center has integrated specific maternity-care procedures based on the proven health benefits associated with breastfeeding and other key elements of bonding between mother and newborn. Our breastfeeding Information guide includes details on the following: - The many benefits of skin-to-skin contact - The importance of latching on - Infant hunger cues to watch for - Hand expression of breast milk