Invaluable Advice for New Moms About Breastfeeding from White Plains Hospital

The benefits of breastfeeding have been touted for years, yet many new mothers are often surprised to learn just how valuable breastfeeding can be for babies -- from providing antibodies to protect the health of the infant, to stronger bonding between mother and child. Health experts consider breastfeeding to be the No. 1 most effective way to help prevent future disease.

Thanks to the Hospital’s commitment to breastfeeding education and assistance, White Plains Hospital ranks well above the national average in its “exclusive breastfeeding rate” – the number of new mothers that provide only breast milk to their newborns. Exclusive breastfeeding is a perinatal core measure tracked by the Joint Commission. The Hospital has achieved such significant numbers through its extensive prenatal education awareness programs and by supporting new moms after they are discharged.

“As healthcare providers, it is our obligation to inform, educate, and promote the best standard of care,” explains Ann Cunillera, RN, Lactation Coordinator at the Hospital, marking the World Breastfeeding Month initiative in August.

The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding exclusively up to six months, and that it continue along with other foods up to two years of age or beyond.

Providing Abundant Support for New Moms

White Plains Hospital engages maternity patients about breastfeeding before, during, and after their hospital stay. The Hospital works with physicians to advocate for breastfeeding during a woman’s pregnancy; invites patients to attend the Hospital’s prenatal breastfeeding classes, and talks to new moms about breastfeeding during the pre-admission process.

Unlike most hospitals, the Hospital requires every nurse in the Mother-Baby Unit to be a certified lactation counselor (CLC). The unit also has an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), who has received advanced training, present every day. Before they leave, patients are informed that insurers, under the Affordable Care Act, must cover the cost of a double breast pump and four one-on-one sessions with a lactation consultant. The Hospital also operates a support line and a free support group for new mothers after they and their babies are discharged.

‘Baby-Friendly ® ’

To take its program to the next level, last week the Hospital is kicked off an internal campaign to gain Baby-Friendly® designation. The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative is an effort started by UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO) to recognize birthing facilities that offer an optimal level of care for infant feeding and mother-baby bonding.

For more information about maternity service at White Plains Hospital, please visit http://www.wphospital.org/programs-services/maternity-services. Patients can sign up online for a tour of the Hospital’s maternity program at http://www.wphospital.org/programs-services/maternity-services/tour-sign-up.