Amazing Newborn Clinic, World Breastfeeding Week event to raise awareness of benefits of breastfeeding

OWATONNA, Minn. 07/20/2010--Learn more about the benefits of breastfeeding and how to advocate for breastfeeding-friendly businesses and workplaces at the Amazing Newborn Clinic Tuesday, Aug. 3 from Noon – 3 p.m. at Central Park Square, Owatonna. This special event is in recognition of World Breastfeeding Week (Aug 1-7) to support, promote and protect breastfeeding.

According to Trisha Wencl, RN and certified lactation counselor at Owatonna Hospital’s Birth Center, "Mothers' milk is very easy for babies to digest and provides the best food for babies to grow on." Breastfed babies have less ear infections, respiratory tract infections, food allergies, diarrhea and dehydration.

Reserved parking for moms and babies and activities for siblings will be available. In case of rain, the event will be held at Roosevelt Community School, 125 E. McKinley St. Information will also be available regarding Minnesota law pertaining for employers and nursing mothers and locations for breast-feeding.

World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated every year in August in more than 120 countries to encourage breastfeeding and improve the health of babies around the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding until a baby is six months old.

This event is sponsored by Owatonna Hospital, part of Allina Hospitals & Clinics; Owatonna Clinic – Mayo Health System; Steele County Public Health, Owatonna Community Education – ECFE; and South Country Health Alliance. For more information about this event, call Owatonna Community Education ECFE at 507-444-7900.

About Owatonna Hospital

Part of Allina Hospitals & Clinics, Owatonna Hospital is a not-for-profit hospital committed to providing exceptional care and improving the health of the communities it serves in and around Steele County. Owatonna Hospital provides a full range of health care services including a birth center, emergency care, surgery and rehabilitation. Allina has built a replacement hospital in Owatonna, off Interstate 35.

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