CERTIFIED LACTATION SERVICES ARE

OFFERED AT THE BELLEVUE HOSPITAL

Cherri Wilson, R.N., I.B. C.L.C., left,

of The Bellevue Hospital’s

Family Birthing Center,

assists nursing mothers with many different problems and concerns associated with breastfeeding.

She is shown here with newborn Grace Isabelle Ball and her mother, Jenne L. Klohn.

The Bellevue Hospital (TBH) is now offering full lactation services through its Family Birthing Center (FBC)

Although many of the FBC employees are trained in and can assist with lactation services, FBC nurse Cherri Wilson, R.N., I.B. C.L.C., recently received her recertification from the International Board of Certified Lactation Consultants. She received her original certification in 1997, and has been employed for 11 years at the hospital.

In order to become a certified lactation consultant, Wilson had to pass a six-hour test, job shadow others in the field, and complete a six-month course of study. The certification is renewable every five years.

“As a lactation consultant, I try to troubleshoot to help moms become successful in breastfeeding their newborn. The American Pediatric Association recommends that one year of breastfeeding is best for the newborn, but my goal is help the moms achieve any amount of breastfeeding. For breastfed newborns, the first few days after childbirth are important in order for the infant to receive colostrum, the thick breast milk rich in minerals and antibodies.”

But some mothers may find breastfeeding to be difficult or nearly impossible due to various reasons. That’s where a certified lactation consultant can assist. “If I can get them to breastfeed for at least two weeks so that the newborn gets the colostrum, then I feel I have achieved my goal.”

Wilson notes that the decision about whether to breastfeed or bottle feed is always left up to the mother. “Our staff members simply give moms the facts about the benefits of breastfeeding and offer to help them with their questions and concerns,” noted Wilson.

“We also discuss some difficulties that may occur during breastfeeding, such as thrush or mastitis, as well as suggestions or methods that may be helpful for them. For example, one common problem associated with breastfeeding is the inability of some mothers to breastfeed at all. “This could be a glandular issue or a structural problem,” explained Wilson. “In these cases, we try to work with the mother on a daily basis. Even if long-term breastfeeding may not be possible, we encourage her to give the baby whatever milk she can produce so that the infant gets the colostrum. Mainly, we make sure the baby is getting enough nourishment.”

The FBC nurses can also offer support when needed. “For some moms, not being able to breastfeed is very difficult emotionally. In these situations, we simply offer emotional support. The going back-to-work issue is another big topic for some moms – how to balance going back to work with breastfeeding,” explained Wilson.

According to Wilson, the “best case scenario” for moms who breastfeed is no smoking, no alcohol, and no drugs of any kind unless prescribed by a physician.

The International Board of Certified Lactation Consultants is the only official, international credential for those offering breastfeeding and lactation care. According to the IBCLC, a mother who breastfeeds can save $1,400 a year on formula, is more likely to bond closely with her child, passes on immunities to her child through colostrums, and recovers more quickly from the weight normally gained during pregnancy. Also, her likelihood of contracting premenopausal breast cancer or osteoporosis over her lifetime is reduced. Studies have also shown that breastfed babies have fewer visits to health care providers through age 17.

For additional information or to set up an appointment for lactation services, phone (419) 483-4040 in Bellevue; (419) 547-0074 in Clyde; or (419) 639-2065 in Fremont, Old Fort, Green Springs, or Republic. Dial or ask for Extension 4295.

Or go to the Family Birthing Center Page on The Bellevue Hospital's Web site.

Lactation Services

CERTIFIED LACTATION SERVICES ARE

OFFERED AT THE BELLEVUE HOSPITAL

The Bellevue Hospital, 1400 W. Main Street - P O Box 8004, Bellevue, Ohio 44811-8004 419-483-4040 Last modified: 09/30/04

The Bellevue Hospital, 1400 W. Main Street - P O Box 8004, Bellevue, Ohio 44811-8004 419-483-4040
Last modified: 09/30/04