HASTINGS — Studies have shown that breastfeeding babies enhances their development in many areas. Mary Lanning Healthcare wishes to remind the community about the importance of breastfeeding through a special event during August — World Breastfeeding Awareness Month.
An open house celebrating the month is scheduled for 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5 in Conference Room #1, Ground Floor, Mary Lanning Healthcare. Information about the benefits of breastfeeding and refreshments will be available.
The August event was spearheaded by Mary Lanning’s two full-time lactation consultants, Julie Ahlman and Andrea Herman. Both nurses spend their time at Mary Lanning helping mothers learn breastfeeding techniques and benefits.
Ahlman said the benefits go beyond those to the mother and child.
“Because breastfed babies tend to have a lower rate of certain illnesses and costs less than formula, saving families money, the benefits can extend to the community, as well,” Ahlman said.
Ahlman and Herman agreed that although breastfeeding is a natural process, many mothers have questions. In addition to helping mothers in the hospital, Ahlman and Herman facilitate the Baby Weighs program. All mothers are invited to attend Baby Weighs, which gives nursing mothers a chance to weigh their babies and talk about breastfeeding issues, concerns or successes.
Baby Weighs meets Tuesday afternoons at the Home Away From Home, with evening sessions meeting the first and third Tuesdays of the month. For more information on this program, please contact the lactation consultants on the Mary Lanning Healthcare Family Care Center at 402-460-5725.