Work is being done to improve breastfeeding rates and access to breastfeeding support for new moms in our area.
The Maternal Child Program at the Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance says breastfeeding rates for Perth County showed a steady decline in 2017-2018 after new moms left the hospital.
Manager Maternal Child for the HPHA, Kerri Hannon, says “breast milk is the best food you can offer your new baby” and it “provides all the nutrients needed to help your baby grow and develop” with Health Canada along with the World Health Organization recommending exclusively breastfeeding for the first six months.
The HPHA says that one way they hope to increase rates is by providing new moms with access to a Registered Nurse with Lactation Consultant certification both as an inpatient and for follow-up care once the mom is discharged.
In order for that to happen, all breastfeeding supports and resources are being consolidated to the Stratford General Hospital which means an updated schedule for breastfeeding clinics.
Starting on December 17th, all breastfeeding clinics will be offered at the SGH on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon.
Anyone with questions can contact the HPHA.
