Breastfeeding may be the most natural way to feed your baby, but that doesn’t guarantee that it is effortless for you or your baby. The team at KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology in Atlanta, Georgia, offers breastfeeding education and counseling to make sure you get off to a good start. You can also get the ongoing support you need when you hit a roadblock and need help. To get started in a breastfeeding class, call the office, or schedule an appointment online today.

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When will I get breastfeeding education?

The team at KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology offers breastfeeding education for first-time mothers during their prenatal care.

They also provide ongoing counseling as part of your postpartum care, so you can get answers to your questions and the help you need if you encounter common breastfeeding challenges.

How does breastfeeding support my baby’s health?

The breast milk you produce during the first few days after your baby’s birth, colostrum, is packed with immune factors, proteins, sugar, and fats.

Colostrum immediately starts to build your baby’s immune system, prevents jaundice, and acts as a laxative. Your early breast milk also creates a coating on your baby’s stomach and intestines to keep germs from invading.

As you continue to breastfeed, your milk provides the complete nutrition needed for your baby to grow and develop. They can also digest breast milk easier than commercial formulas.

Breastfed babies develop a stronger immune system. As a result, they have a lower risk of developing health problems such as:

  • Ear infections
  • Colds and respiratory illnesses
  • Asthma
  • Allergies
  • Childhood obesity
  • Eczema
  • Diabetes

Breastmilk may also enhance the effect of early immunizations.

Does breastfeeding offer benefits for the mother?

Breastfeeding creates the first emotional bond between you and your baby, but moms also gain physical benefits. During breastfeeding, your body releases hormones that help your uterus return to its normal size.

Additionally, breastfeeding delays ovulation and lowers your long-term risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers.

What will I learn during breastfeeding education?

The team at KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology covers all the basics you need to know about breastfeeding. You will learn about:

  • How to position your baby
  • How long to breastfeed
  • How to help your baby latch onto your nipple
  • Common breastfeeding challenges
  • How to pump and store breast milk
  • When to introduce the bottle
  • What to do with engorged breast
  • How to prevent and treat sore nipples

Your provider at KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology talks with you about what to do if your milk doesn’t come in.

They also teach you about warning signs other than crying that show your baby may not be getting enough milk. For example, the number of wet diapers or stools passed each day can show if your baby gets enough breast milk.

To register for breastfeeding education, call KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology or book an appointment online today.