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“Whereas we used to just ask the expectant moms if they were going tobreastfeed or bottle feed, we now focus on educating them about the benefitsof breastfeeding and encourage them to make an informed decision inthis regard,” stated Juli Weaver, RN, the hospital’s perinatal educator. “Weencourage breastfeeding moms to breastfeed exclusively for six monthsand we have breast pump rental options to help support this goal.”Within an hour after birth, a certified lactation consultant willhelp mothers begin the breastfeeding process and teach them how todo this as well as advice how to maintain lactation, even if they have tobe separated from their infants. This is done with both vaginal deliveriesand C-sections, as soon as the mother is stable enough to do so.“The longest any mom is separated from her baby is 30 minutes at theend of a C-section,” said Debbie. “For vaginal deliveries, we promoteskin-to-skin contact right after birth.”“The skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby helps significantlyto regulate the transition to the outside world from the womb,”says Juli. “It regulates the baby’s temperature, the heart rate and theblood glucose levels, among other things.”Overall, St. Joseph’s has seen a rise in the number of womenchoosing to breastfeed, and that can be greatly attributed to theeducational platform available to the patients. “We have prenatal andpostnatal classes about breastfeeding, and we also have a breastfeedingsupport group available for new moms, all of which are free,” saidSusan Pirie, RN, childbirth educator and lactation consultant.In fact, St. Joseph’s has a complete line of “Welcome to Life”prenatal and parenthood classes, including childbirth preparation andinfant CPR, among others, most of which are free.Fortunately, St. Joseph’s boasts a staff that is dedicated to creatinga special environment for the birthing experience and giving babiesa healthy start in life. “We appreciate that our staff has embraced thisBaby-Friendly goal,” commented Debbie. “Sure, there were a fewobstacles at first, but now it is an integral part of our routine, and theright thing to do to give our moms and babies the best care.” ■For more information, visit their website atStJosephsCares.org/Baby. You may also call the hospital at 209-943-2000.HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 19