Celebrating National Breastfeeding Month

Tips and Resources for Nursing Families

Breastfeeding is recognized as the optimal source of nutrition for infants, providing essential nutrients and immune-boosting properties. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, continuing for as long as mutually desired, ideally up to two years or beyond.

Research indicates that breastfeeding can significantly reduce the risk of various health issues in both infants and mothers, including respiratory infections, allergies, and certain cancers in mothers.

While breastfeeding is considered the natural way to feed, it can present some challenges for moms and babies. With problems ranging from low milk supply and pain while nursing, to infants struggling to latch on and plugged milk ducts, it is easy for parents to become discouraged. With patience, guidance from experienced lactation consultants, and support from other nursing families, it is possible to overcome issues and establish a happy and successful feeding situation.

Some of the resources available to nursing families in the SVMC community include:

Breastfeeding for New Parents Classes: Developed for new parents and members of their support teams, this in-person class is led by a certified lactation consultant who shares the benefits of breastfeeding, what to expect during the first feedings, positioning options, helpful equipment, returning to work, overcoming challenges and more. Held every two months at the hospital, the class is free. Register here.

The Baby Café: A service provided by the Women’s and Children’s Services of Southwestern Vermont Medical Center, The Baby Café is a free, drop-in, informal breastfeeding support group staffed with International Board Certified Lactation Consultants and/or RNs. From questions about lactation, accessing the local milk bank, and weaning, to tips for latching on, pumping, and storing milk, the Baby Café is the perfect place for anyone seeking information related to feeding infants human milk. Plus, it provides parents and caregivers the chance to share experiences and challenges of feeding your infant.

Based out of the Bennington Community Market, the Baby Café is free and open every Wednesday from 11 to 12:30pm. No registration is required, and siblings and other children are welcome.

The Milk Bank: Families that give birth at SVMC can receive Pasteurized Human Donor Milk (PHDM) both in the hospital and once they’ve returned home if there is a mother- or newborn-related medical reason for PHDM. Reasons might include a mother’s milk not being available due to a medical issue or a baby having difficulty with breastfeeding. PHDM is also helpful if the baby is premature, loses too much weight, or has jaundice or low blood sugars. 

By raising awareness and fostering supportive environments, we can ensure that all families have the resources and encouragement they need to thrive during National Breastfeeding Month and beyond.

Bridget Bromirksi, C-PNP,IBCLC is a nurse in Women’s and Children’s Services Department at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center.