Breastfeeding is always best!

University of Idaho One of the first big decisions new parents make is how they will feed their newborn. When it comes to feeding infants, breastfeeding still reigns as the best. Breast milk is perfectly formulated for human babies, just as cow's milk is perfectly formulated for calves, bear's milk is perfectly formulated for cubs, etc. As an added bonus, it comes in sterile containers and is inexpensive, whereas formula can cost up to $4,000 per year. Nationally, in 1984, only about 59 percent of women initiated breastfeeding, but current data from the Centers for Disease Control indicate that the rate has increased to 75 percent. In Idaho the numbers are much better! The Bureau of Vital Statistics reported that 87 percent of Idahoans breastfeed, while 89.3 percent of North Idahoans do. Kudos to our North Idaho mothers! The standard recommendation is to breastfeed for 12 months or longer. According to Eileen Bagan, RN, Lactation Program Coordinator from Kootenai Health, evidence based research on the benefits of breastfeeding for the baby include "protection against ear infections, gastroenteritis, severe lower respiratory infections and necrotizing enterocolitis." The nutrients in breastmilk help build the baby's brain and immune system. In addition, breastfeeding is associated with lower rates of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, childhood obesity, Type 2 Diabetes and leukemia. There are benefits to the mother as well, including reduced risk for Type 2 Diabetes, breast and ovarian cancers. Although breastfeeding is the completely natural way to feed babies, new moms and their families still need instruction and support for success. So, where can you go if you or your family has trouble? Try your local hospital. Kootenai Health is considered a "Baby Friendly Hospital," meaning they promote, protect and support breastfeeding. They are an accredited breastfeeding friendly facility, meeting the strict standards of the international Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative. The hospital and Board are committed to support this initiative both philosophically and financially. They recently received their second five-year accreditation based on a comprehensive program of education and policies, which include: n Education for all hospital staff on the benefits of breastfeeding. n Intensive skills training for obstetric and pediatric staff on breastfeeding success. n Assistance, guidance and education for every mother that delivers at KMC. Bagen offers the following tips for new moms to help them have breastfeeding success. n Tell everyone about your plans to breastfeed. Let your doctor, pediatrician, hospital nurses, family, friends and employer know that you plan to give only breast milk - and will need their full support. n Room-in and feed frequently. Having your baby in your hospital room allows you to respond to his/her hunger cues immediately. Frequent breastfeeding is the best way to build a good milk supply. n Know who to ask for support. Most breastfeeding problems have easy solutions. Before your baby is born, make a list of who you can call for help (nurse, lactation specialist, experienced mom, etc.). Other community resources for breast feeding moms include: Mothers Haven, La leche League and the Panhandle WIC Program.