Some Memorial Hermann tips for National Breastfeeding Month to latch on to

THE WOODLANDS, TX – National Breastfeeding Month is observed every August in the United States to celebrate and promote the importance of breastfeeding for the health and well-being of both infants and mothers. Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center aims to raise awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding, encourage breastfeeding-friendly environments, and support parents in making informed infant feeding choices.

There to help you overcome any breastfeeding challenges are team members at the hospital such as Nicole, a nurse manager for Women’s Services, and Tracy, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

“Everyone is welcome to use our services, whether or not you’re a patient of Memorial Hermann The Woodlands,” said Nicole. “We’re proud of our services, like the by-appointment Outpatient Lactation Consults, the Lactation Consultant Helpline, our free Breastfeeding Support Group meetings every Wednesday, the Mother’s Milk Bank drop-off site, and our Mary Hersey Lactation Center.”

The Mother’s Milk Bank is a place to donate extra breast milk that is then pasteurized and prescribed to medically fragile babies in need, like those young souls in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The Mary Hersey Lactation Center provides bra-fitting, lactation supplies, infant gifts, pump rental and infant scale rental. Breastfeeding mothers – or mothers who are about to begin breastfeeding – can set an appointment with a lactation consultant by calling 713-897-3940, and new parents with questions or concerns can reach the helpline at 713-897-5832.

According to the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Advocacy, a supportive environment for breastfeeding not only benefits families but also significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with artificial feeding. It’s important to note:

• Breast milk is dynamic – It changes over time and even during a single feeding to meet the baby's needs.
• Colostrum is important – It’s the first milk produced, rich in antibodies and nutrients.
• Any amount of breastfeeding is beneficial – Even a little breast milk offers protection and health benefits for the baby.
• Finding the right latch and position is important – Seek help from a lactation consultant if needed.

Parents wanting to learn more can visit www.memorialhermann.org/services/specialties/womens/labor-delivery/after-labor-delivery-resources/breastfeeding-support.