Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a natural source of the key
nutrients needed during your infant's first
year. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends
that mothers breastfeed for at least the first
twelve months of life. Even though a mother's
body has everything it needs to provide nourishment
to her baby, the act of breastfeeding is a skill
that has to be learned by both mother and child.
Penn Ob/Gyn Care provides breastfeeding support
via classes,
discussion groups, and lactation consultants.
In addition, the Solutions
for Women at Pennsylvania Hospital sells
a variety of maternity, breastfeeding and new
parent products including pumps, nursing bras,
abdominal supports,books and more.
The following information reviews the benefits
of breastfeeding, as well as techniques, checklists, a list of support services
and more.
See also:
If your baby is in the Intensive Care Nursery,
your health care provider will discuss your breastfeeding
options. For additional breastfeeding information,
visit our Penn Ob/Gyn Care - Pregnancy
Health Center.
Choosing Not to Breastfeed
Your choice to breastfeed or not to breastfeed
is a personal decision. Do not let others negatively
influence your decision. For some, breastfeeding
is not possible due to varying circumstances or
breastfeeding may not be a mother's preferred
method of feeding her baby. Some mothers may decide
to breastfeed for only a short period of time
after her baby is born or supplement with infant
formula.
In place of breastfeeding, infant formulas are
food products designed to provide for the nutritional
needs of infants. Learn more about infant formulas
in our Health
Encyclopedia and in our Pregnancy
Health Center.
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