Lactation Services
The moment you are pregnant your body begins to prepare to make milk to nourish your baby. In the early days, your baby's stomach is very small and breastfeeding is as much about comfort as it is nutrition. It can provide safety, security and peace for a new baby. The "first" milk you have in your breasts is called colostrum, and it is the perfect first food for your baby. It is gentle on a newborn's stomach and is very easy to digest. Breast milk is extremely high in antibodies, which help to boost your baby's immature immune system. It is high in fats to help your baby's brain develop. Though nursing is a very natural process, it does take practice and patience. You and your baby are learning together.
Breastfeeding Education
Learn more about breastfeeding from internationally board-certified lactation consultants during our breastfeeding class. This class covers topics such as:
- Benefits of breastfeeding
- Starting early skin-to-skin contact/baby-led feeding
- Positioning and latching
- Maintaining a good milk supply
- Hand expressing and use of a breast pump
- Special mom concerns (adoption, breast augmentation/reduction, engorgement, PCOS/infertility/hypothyroidism, working moms and more)
- Special infant health concerns (multiples, down syndrome, prematurity, cleft lip or palate)
Guidance from Certified Lactation Consultants
The internationally board-certified lactation consultants at Mat-Su Regional Medical Center are specially trained registered nurses whose goal is to enhance your breastfeeding experience. We recommend that you schedule an appointment with a lactation consultant if you are having problems nursing or if feedings are not going well.
You will be paired with a consultant who will review any concerns you may have, observe you and your baby during feeding and offer guidance to ensure both you and your baby are getting the most out of breastfeeding. Feel free to call back with any questions or schedule an additional consult if problems are not resolved. Typical concerns include increasing milk supply, resolving sore nipples, assisting with proper latching and poor feeders or NICU graduates.