Breastfeeding
Promotion
There is no better way to provide
a baby with the nutrition he or she needs than by breastfeeding. Studies
show that babies who are breastfed are much less likely to develop
infections or health problems
later in life.
The first few years of life are an important period for a child’s
development. Breastfeeding ensures
the proper nutrition needed for a baby to develop properly and begin a
healthy life. For more information on breastfeeding benefits, view local resources available to help you succeed at
breastfeeding and view the
educational brochure. |
Last year, the COHC Board of Directors approved "Community
Standards for Breastfeeding Promotion," which was developed by
hospital OB and neonatal representatives over the past year. The
standards are intended to encourage hospital practices community-wide
that support mothers in breastfeeding, and are consistent with
guidelines established by the "Baby Friendly 10 Steps to Successful
Breastfeeding" initiative. According to the standards, local
hospitals will strive to:
-
Place babies in their mother's arms within 30 minutes of birth for
at least an hour;
-
Initiate breastfeeding within one hour of birth;
-
Provide newborns exclusively with breast milk during their hospital
stay;
-
Encourage mothers to "room in" by remaining with their newborns for
24 hours a day;
-
Educate parents on best breastfeeding practices and on community
resources available after discharge; and
-
Discontinue routinely providing free samples and coupons for infant
formula.
The
Board also approved an
Employer Pledge for Breastfeeding Mothers, a
document also drafted by the OB and neonatal representatives. The pledge
is intended to address concerns raised by pregnant women surveyed last
September by COHC on their top barriers to breastfeeding. That
survey
showed the top barrier being difficulties women perceive when they
return to school or work. Other area employers will be
encouraged to adopt the pledge in 2013.
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Survey
Results Indicate Top Barriers for Women's Decision to Breastfeed
From
September 1 to October 1, 2012,
Central Ohio Hospital
Council (COHC) administered a survey to pregnant women in Central Ohio
prenatal clinics (hospital-based and those operated by FQHCs and
Columbus Public Health) as well as from private
obstetrician
(OB) offices, to identify frequently perceived barriers to
breastfeeding.
Of the 581 women surveyed, 33% indicated that they would not breastfeed
their babies, with top concerns being:
1. Difficulty with
returning to school or work;
2. Lack of help from
others;
3. Concerns over
discomfort and pain.

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