Who to Talk to About Breastfeeding: A Guide for Expecting and New Mothers
Doctors recommend breastfeeding for good reason: the benefits for both baby and mom are well-documented and significant. But knowing why breastfeeding is best is only part of the journey. Whether you're newly pregnant or have just welcomed your newborn baby, knowing who can help answer questions and offer guidance will make all the difference.
At CaroMont Health, we work to ensure new moms have a team of caring and knowledgeable professionals ready to walk alongside you from pregnancy through the early days and months of your baby’s life. The following is a guide to help you know who can help support you every step of the way:
BEFORE BIRTH: START THE CONVERSATION
This is the time to start learning about breastfeeding. During your prenatal period, explore the subject at your own pace, without the feeling that it is a time-sensitive matter. Your women’s healthcare provider will be a great source of early information and can provide resources to explore breastfeeding and all its benefits while you are pregnant.
Your OB-GYN or Midwife
Your obstetrician (also referred to as OB-GYN) or midwife will be your trusted partner throughout your entire pregnancy. They are an incredible source of information about breastfeeding and the many health benefits it offers. They are a trusted resource to address sensitive questions, provide information and help ease concerns regarding any physical issues that might interfere with your ability to breastfeed.
Don’t hesitate to ask your OB-GYN or midwife how breastfeeding might look for your individual health history, what breastfeeding will look like the first few days after your baby’s birth and whether it might be helpful for you to meet with a lactation consultant before your baby is born. There are no wrong questions. These experts are available to ensure you feel educated and prepared.
Classes Offered at The Birthplace
As you prepare for your baby's arrival, CaroMont Health is here to assist you in feeling ready for your new addition with a variety of classes available at The Birthplace in Gastonia. The two-hour Breastfeeding Basics course is open to all CaroMont Health expectant mothers and are taught in-person by a certified lactation consultant. These classes provide you the opportunity to gain the education and confidence you need before your newborn arrives.
IN THE HOSPITAL: SUPPORT IS STEPS AWAY
When your baby arrives, it’s time to simply start breastfeeding, right? It’s hardly ever that simple. For new moms working to master the skill of breastfeeding, the hours and days immediately following birth can be a valuable time to seek advice while you are in the hospital and surrounded by specialty care providers. If you need support, CaroMont Health care team professionals are ready to help you.
Your Nursing Staff
The nursing staff at both the Labor and Delivery unit at CaroMont Regional Medical Center in Belmont and The Birthplace in Gastonia have years of experience in assisting new mothers breastfeed their babies. They can help you with your first attempts, help you find a comfortable position and answer questions as they come up. Breastfeeding doesn't always come easily at first, and that's okay. Your care team is specially trained to help new moms navigate those early challenges. From latching difficulties to feeding schedules, they're there to answer your questions, offer hands-on guidance and make sure you and your baby leave feeling confident.
Lactation Consultants at The Birthplace
A certified lactation consultant is an expert in assisting breastfeeding mothers in an efficient and comfortable manner. For moms delivering at The Birthplace at CaroMont Regional Medical Center in Gastonia, consultants are available to visit you in your room, assess your baby's latch or help work through any challenges such as discomfort or a baby who isn’t feeding well. If you are experiencing difficulties with breastfeeding, a visit from the lactation consultant prior to your discharge from the hospital is always a good idea.
HEADING HOME: ONGOING GUIDANCE AS YOU AND YOUR BABY SETTLE IN
After returning home with your new addition, it is just as important to have a good support system for yourself and your baby as it was during your pregnancy and at the hospital.
Your OB-GYN or Midwife
Your postpartum appointments with your OB-GYN or midwife are a good time to bring up any issues you may be having, especially in regards to breastfeeding. Be sure to let them know if you're experiencing pain, concerns related to milk production or any emotional struggles related to postpartum anxiety. Your OB-GYN or midwife will be able to guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether or not you continue to breastfeed. If breastfeeding isn't going as planned once you're home, don't hesitate to reach out to your provider. They know your history, understand your situation and can offer trusted guidance tailored to you.
At the end of the day, a growing, thriving baby is the goal, and working with an expert you trust will help you find the path that gets you both there. Your OB-GYN or midwife is here for you and will help guide you in the right direction whether you continue breastfeeding or not.
Ongoing Support is Available
The support of CaroMont Health lactation consultants does not stop when your hospital visit is over. Our lactation consultants host GALS, Gaston Area Lactation Support, every Tuesday from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at The Birthplace. It is a safe, judgment free space for mothers to bring their babies to have their weight checked, identify any feeding concerns early or simply find reassurance that their baby is doing well.
For mothers who need extra or personalized care after delivery, CaroMont Health also offers visits with a lactation consultant and can be scheduled as needed. These visits typically last about an hour, and in most cases, insurance covers lactation consultant visits following discharge. Your care team can help you navigate your coverage and get the support you need.
A Partner in Your Baby’s Growth: Your Pediatrician
No matter what method you are using to feed your baby, your child's pediatrician is an important part of ensuring your baby is healthy and growing. At every visit, your pediatrician will check your baby's weight gain, growth chart, diaper output and development. These are all clear signs that your baby is receiving the nutrition they need.
If you are breastfeeding, these visits are also a good time to ask questions you might have about feeding your baby. Your pediatrician wants your baby to grow and be healthy. They can help you determine what is working and offer guidance on any adjustments that may be needed.
The Most Important Thing Is That You Feel Supported
Throughout your pregnancy, birth and welcoming your new baby, CaroMont Health care teams and providers want you to have access to information and quality care. Your providers, including your OB-GYN, midwife, labor and delivery nurses, pediatrician and lactation consultant are there to assist you, answer any questions you may have and offer their expertise. From these very first moments, we are honored to be a part of you and your baby’s story.
Take the First Step
Whether you have questions about breastfeeding or simply want to explore all your feeding options, reaching out to any of these providers is always a great place to start. They are here to help you find the best path for you and your family.
Looking for a doctor? Find a trusting women's health provider here.
Preparing for your baby's first doctor's appointment? Start your search for a pediatrician here.