The Westerly Hospital is a designated Baby-Friendly Hospital which means our hospital teaches you skills, provides information, and helps you build confidence to successfully breastfeed if you so choose.  Because you may have questions about breastfeeding, here are some answers to common questions.

 Breastfeeding FAQs

Why should I breastfeed my baby?
Breast milk:

• provides optimal nutrients and important antibodies
• is free of contaminants from bacteria
• is always the right temperature
• is convenient for you and for baby 

Does my baby get any benefits from breastmilk? 
Yes, not only is breast milk the perfect food for your baby, breastfeeding has many benefits for baby, it:

• decreases risk of Sudden Infant Death
• results in fewer ear infections and stomach viruses
• has been shown to result in less childhood cancers and diabetes for breastfed babies

What about me? Do I get any benefits if I breastfeed?
As a breastfeeding mom, you do get benefits too. Here are a few:

• you'll return to pre-pregnancy weight faster
• you'll have decreased risk of postpartum bleeding
• it may reduce risk of premenopausal breast and ovarian cancer
• you'll save money (no formula or supplies)
• you'll help the enviroment by saving water and eliminating waste

I've never breastfed before. How do I learn to do it?
We have a breastfeeding class taught by one of our staff lactation consultants. She'll cover everything you need to know about breastfeeding.  You'll learn what to expect when your baby arrives and you start to breastfeed. Learning about breastfeeding before you try it can really help when baby arrives.

The Westerly Hospital is a Baby-Friendly Hospital so we have certified lactation counsultants and certified lactation counselors available seven days a week.  They'll help you while you are in the hospital and call you when you return home to answer any questions you may have.

Where can I learn more about your pre-natal breastfeeding class and more about Baby-Friendly and lactation consultants?
Click on these links for more information:  pre-natal breastfeeding, Baby-Friendly

What happens if I get home from the hospital and have trouble breastfeeding?
Don't worry. You can always call our hospital and speak to one of our breastfeeding specialists. She can help you with any problems you are having. It's common for new breastfeeding moms to have questions when they get home, so feel free to call us at 401-348-BABY with any questions.

Do you have ongoing support for breastfeeding moms?
Yes. The staff of the Women's Health Center offers a free, weekly breastfeeding support group that meets every Saturday morning from 10-11:30 a.m. at The Westerly Hospital's Nardone Conference Center. Join other moms, share experiences, and learn breastfeeding tips from Women's Health Center staff. 

Breastfeeding Resources
La Leche League: www.lll.org 
CDC: www.CDC.gov/breastfeeding/resources/guide.htm
International Lactation Consultant Association: www.ilca.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=1
American Academy of Pediatrics: www.aap.org/healthtopics/breastfeeding.cfm